Pen box c. 19th century

This pen box was made by an anonymous artist, crafted from silver, coral, and turquoise. The piece is carefully assembled from stacked, embellished segments. Consider the labor involved in creating this functional object. The silversmith would have been skilled in metalworking, shaping and soldering the silver to create a sturdy, decorative form. The addition of coral and turquoise wasn't just aesthetic, but also symbolic, each stone carefully chosen and placed, held in place by intricate silverwork. The patterns of stones, the details of the silver chasing, and the overall form of the box reflect cultural traditions passed down through generations. This pen box bridges the gap between craft and fine art. It transcends its practical purpose, inviting us to consider the time, skill, and cultural value embedded in its making.