Cellaret 1800 - 1830

This cellaret, made of mahogany by Duncan Phyfe, embodies the material culture of early 19th-century America. It is a potent reminder of the significance of alcohol in social rituals of the period, and the conspicuous consumption associated with a rising merchant class. Looking closely, one notices its classical form, reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman furniture. This Neoclassical style, popular among elites, signaled refinement and taste. The cellaret’s function, to store and display liquor, speaks volumes about the cultural norms of hospitality and status during this period. Crafted in New York, this piece reflects the city's burgeoning economy and its role as a hub for luxury goods. By examining period newspapers, inventories, and etiquette manuals, we can further understand how objects like this reinforced social hierarchies. The cellaret is not merely a container, but a historical artifact that reflects the values, aspirations, and social structures of its time.