Platter (part of a set) 1771 - 1772

Edme-Pierre Balzac's "Platter (part of a set)" is a fine example of 18th-century French silverwork. The oval platter, crafted between 1771 and 1772, features a delicate, scalloped rim and a subtle engraved design, reflecting the elegance and refinement of the period. Its simple yet elegant form speaks to the artistic sensibilities of the time, reflecting the transition from the ornate Baroque style to the more restrained Neoclassical aesthetics. This piece, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Balzac's skill and the enduring beauty of French silver craftsmanship.