Creamer 1848 - 1851

This creamer was made in the United States by Ball, Tompkins and Black, sometime between 1839 and 1851. It's crafted from silver, a material prized for its malleability and lustrous finish. The creamer's surface is elaborately decorated, reflecting the era's taste for ornate designs. Notice the detailed chasing and repoussé work, techniques where the silversmith skillfully hammers and shapes the metal from both sides to create raised or recessed patterns. The handle, shaped like a grapevine, and the bird finial on the lid, add to its naturalistic charm. This object speaks to the rise of industrial manufacturing. Firms like Ball, Tompkins and Black could produce such intricate designs thanks to a division of labor, with specialized artisans each responsible for specific tasks. This allowed for more efficient production but also raises questions about the individual craftsperson's role in the creative process. By considering the making of this creamer, we can better understand its place in a changing world.