Vase with cover 1811 - 1812

This Vase with cover was created in 1804, by Joseph William Story. Story's vase embodies the social customs of its time. It was presented to Edward Kemys by friends, as a token of many hours spent together and in appreciation of his fine fiddling, and reflects the cultural values and social interactions of early 19th-century American society. Silverware like this vase also signified wealth and status. The vase transcends mere functionality, becoming a symbol of friendship, appreciation, and social connection. The vase has handles ornamented with three-dimensional masks of bearded men. The upper and lower portions of the vase are decorated with grape vines and oak leaves respectively. It operates in a sphere of elite social rituals, hinting at both shared joys and the hierarchies of the era. It stands as a reminder of the intricate ways objects become intertwined with personal histories, reflecting the complex tapestry of human relationships.