Schrank (cabinet) c. 1640

This impressive Schrank, or cabinet, stands as a testament to the intricate craftsmanship of its time, though its maker remains unknown. Likely crafted in the 17th century, it embodies a period of significant social stratification, where artistry often served the elite. The sheer size and ornate carvings speak of wealth and status, reflecting the cultural values placed on material display. Think about the hands that labored over the details of this cabinet; the design is European, but who was the artisan? How did race and class shape their experience? What was the commission process like? This Schrank is not merely a storage piece, it's a symbol. It stands as an artifact reflecting the complex interplay of power, labor, and identity. It reminds us to consider the stories of those who made it and the world that shaped their hands.