Salver 1722 - 1735

This salver was created by Charles Le Roux, a master silversmith, likely in the early 18th century. Its reflective surface and geometric form evoke a sense of restrained elegance. The piece is made of solid silver, a material prized for its lustrous sheen and malleability. Formally, the salver presents a study in contrasts. The smooth, flat plane of the tray is bordered by a raised, curving edge, creating a visual tension between surface and boundary. Four small, stylized feet lift the tray, giving it a sense of lightness. The centre is decorated with an engraved emblem. This delicate, circular pattern provides a focal point that disrupts the otherwise uniform surface. Le Roux’s choice of silver underscores the object’s dual nature as both functional item and status symbol. The reflective properties of the silver invite the viewer to consider the salver’s role in reflecting not just objects, but also social values and aspirations. Its restrained decoration and precise craftsmanship speak to the refined tastes of the period, embodying a discourse of luxury and status.