Cann 1750 - 1800

This cann was made by Daniel Dupuy, a silversmith working in New York in the 18th century. Its simple design speaks volumes about the social and economic life of colonial America. Objects like this weren't just functional; they were markers of status. Owning silver signified wealth and social standing. The cann's presence on a table during gatherings also reinforced social hierarchies. It acted as a silent participant in the rituals of dining and hospitality. The cann reflects the burgeoning mercantile culture of New York, where skilled artisans like Dupuy catered to the tastes of a growing elite. Studying objects like this cann involves delving into probate records, merchant ledgers, and other historical documents. These can reveal who owned such items, how they were used, and the social meanings they carried. The history of this cann is a reminder that art exists within complex networks of social and institutional relations.