Knife 1834 - 1846

This knife was made by Samuel Kirk, a 19th century Baltimore silversmith. A seemingly simple object, it tells a story of evolving social customs and growing wealth in the United States. As the 19th century progressed, dining became an increasingly elaborate affair, reflecting the rising affluence of the middle and upper classes. Matching sets of silverware became a status symbol, signifying refined taste and the ability to afford luxury goods. Kirk, known for his intricate repoussé work, catered to this demand, producing silverware that was both functional and ornamental. The knife's very presence speaks to the rituals of dining that were codified, reinforcing social distinctions and signalling adherence to etiquette. To understand this piece better, we might consult period etiquette manuals, trade catalogs, and census records, exploring the intertwined histories of manufacturing, consumerism, and social ambition. The art lies not only in the object itself, but also in the world it inhabited and the values it represents.