Plate 1767 - 1768

This plate was crafted in France by Louis-Joseph Lenhendrick, a silversmith active in the 18th century. Note the delicate engraved crest, a symbol of lineage and power, marking this piece as belonging to a noble family. Such emblems, these silent narrators of identity, echo through history. From ancient Roman signet rings to medieval heraldry, the desire to inscribe oneself into the grand tapestry of time is a recurring theme. Think of the family crests emblazoned on shields and banners, symbols of courage and loyalty. The crest on this plate, while subtle, speaks volumes about the owner's status and aspirations. It served not only as identification but also as a psychological anchor, connecting the individual to a storied past. The act of dining, a daily ritual, became infused with the weight of history, a constant reminder of one's place in the social order. The crest becomes a potent symbol, a manifestation of collective memory.