Pair of sauceboats 1742

These are a pair of silver sauceboats by Paul de Lamerie, now residing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. These sauceboats reflect the high style of the 18th century. But they also hint at the economic structures of the time. Silver was a valuable commodity, reflecting the owner's wealth and status. Made in England, these sauceboats, with their elegant curves and detailed feet, demonstrate the refined tastes of the elite. They also testify to the emergence of a wealthy merchant class eager to display their affluence through sophisticated tableware. The institution of the fine art museum plays a crucial role here, enshrining what were once functional objects as artworks. To fully understand these sauceboats, we need to delve into the economic history of the period, examining trade routes, the silver industry, and the social rituals surrounding dining. Only then can we truly appreciate these objects as reflections of a specific time and place.