Hot milk pot 1741 - 1754

This hot milk pot was created in France by Mathieu Bouvier, sometime between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Crafted from silver, a precious metal, this object speaks volumes about the society in which it was made. In France, at this time, the court of Louis XIV set the standard for luxury and taste. Silver, with its gleaming surface and association with wealth, became a popular material for decorative arts. Objects like this milk pot were not just functional items; they were symbols of status and refinement, displayed in aristocratic households to impress visitors. The undulating, curved surface adds a sense of movement and visual interest. The lobed decoration on the lid adds a touch of whimsy and elegance. Looking at the archives of the silversmithing guilds, and the inventories of wealthy households, we can begin to understand the social and cultural significance of objects like this. The historian's role is to unpack these layers of meaning, revealing the complex relationship between art, society, and power.