Salver 1755 - 1765

This silver salver was crafted by Myer Myers, a prominent silversmith of the 18th century. The piece is characterized by its symmetrical design and refined craftsmanship. Notice the undulating rim, punctuated by ornate, shell-like embellishments at regular intervals. The raised edge creates a sense of containment, framing the central, polished plane, which invites reflection. Light plays across the surface, accentuating the contrast between the smooth, unadorned center and the intricately worked border. Myers uses a combination of line, form, and texture to achieve a balance between opulence and restraint. The salver isn't merely functional. It's a statement of wealth and status, embodying the values of colonial America and European traditions of craftsmanship. The highly polished surface suggests purity and value, whilst the baroque ornamentation references classical motifs of beauty and abundance. These visual components are a semiotic system that speaks to the cultural codes of luxury and refinement. Ultimately, this salver, with its emphasis on symmetry and surface, acts as a mirror reflecting not only light but also the aspirations and values of its time.