Thimble 1839

This thimble was made by Carl Wilhelm Trozelius sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. It's crafted from silver, a material often associated with wealth and status, but here it’s used for a humble, utilitarian object. Look closely at the surface; notice the delicate floral patterns etched around the base, contrasting with the dimpled texture on top. These details weren't stamped out by a machine, but carefully engraved by hand. Imagine the meticulous work involved, the precision needed to create such a functional yet decorative object. Thimbles like this speak volumes about the social context of their time. They represent the essential, often invisible labor of textile production within the household economy. Needlework was a skill expected of women, and the thimble, while small, was a crucial tool. By appreciating the materiality and the making of this thimble, we recognize the artistry embedded in everyday objects and challenge the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft.