Crystal box with cover (part of a set) 1848 - 1849

This crystal box was made by Johann Bernhard Hertz, though we don't know the exact year. The base is made of clear crystal, while the lid is silver. Consider the inherent qualities of these materials. Crystal, prized for its clarity and ability to refract light, evokes luxury. The silver lid, with its engraved floral decorations, complements this sense of refinement. The making of this box would have required specialized skills, with glassblowing forming the crystal, and silversmithing used for the lid. Both of these materials and processes speak to their social context. Silver, particularly, has always been associated with wealth. The amount of work involved in the production process, from the initial extraction of raw materials to the final polishing, suggests a significant investment of labor. By understanding how it was made, we recognize the artistry and understand the cultural values that shaped its creation.