Salver 1735 - 1745

This silver salver was created by Simeon Soumaine in the early 18th century. The first impression is one of gleaming light, reflected and refracted across the surface. The circular form, broken only by rhythmic undulations, is echoed in the stepped molding around the edge. Note how these small waves seem to propagate outwards, disturbing the perfect geometry of the disc. The reflective nature of the silver transforms the salver into a dynamic object that responds to its surroundings. The craftsmanship suggests a desire for order and refinement, a world governed by harmony and balance. Yet, the subtle play of light introduces an element of instability, almost challenging the rigidity of its design. This tension between the ideal form and the material reality invites us to consider the role of art as a mirror reflecting not just objects but also the complexities of human perception and the ever-shifting nature of meaning.