Covered sugar bowl 1790 - 1800

Editor: Here we have a covered sugar bowl, made sometime between 1790 and 1800 by William W. Gilbert. It's crafted from silver and held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I find its elegance and clean lines quite striking. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Well, considering the social history, sugar bowls like this represent far more than mere containers. This was crafted during a time of growing abolitionist sentiment even while sugar production was heavily reliant on slave labor. So the bowl itself becomes a symbol of complicated social dynamics. What does the form of the bowl suggest to you? Editor: It seems very classical in shape... almost like a trophy, which makes sense given it's Neoclassical style. I wonder, would this have been a common item? Curator: Not exactly "common." Silver objects of this caliber signified status and wealth. Reflect on its potential display within a domestic space. How would its presence impact the social rituals within that setting? Would it be for show, for actual use? The family’s monogram broadcasts exclusivity. Editor: That’s a really interesting point. The monogram absolutely makes it seem personal, even a little intimidating. Like a declaration of identity and ownership... which now makes me consider it with those exploitative labor practices in mind. Curator: Exactly! Now you're thinking about how art objects reflect, and are actively involved in constructing, power relationships. Editor: This has really changed how I look at it! I initially just saw beauty, but now it represents larger economic and moral issues too. Curator: That is the exciting part about delving into the history. Everyday items are so much more.