Pair of Double-lipped Sauceboats 1733 - 1734

Curator: Here we have a pair of double-lipped sauceboats crafted by Thomas Farren, active in the early 18th century. Editor: Their fluid lines give them a distinctly Baroque feel, the light reflecting off the silver surface. Curator: These sauceboats offer a glimpse into the dining habits of the wealthy. Silverware was a status symbol, reflecting a family's economic standing. Editor: Note the carefully sculpted handles and the subtle engravings. These details elevate what would otherwise be a simple utilitarian object. Curator: Indeed, the material itself is significant. Silver, unlike earthenware, doesn’t absorb flavors, ensuring the purity of each sauce. Editor: Beyond that, the very shape and size seem perfectly calibrated for the sauces of the period. You can almost taste the rich gravies they once held. Curator: It’s a testament to the skill of craftsmen of the period. Their labor produced objects of beauty and luxury. Editor: Yes, and what elegant forms! It’s a simple object, but it tells a rich and interesting story about the culture that produced it.