Spoon 1788 - 1791

This silver spoon was made by Van Voorhis & Schanck, sometime between 1788 and 1793. Even a simple utensil like this speaks volumes about its time. In late 18th-century America, owning silver wasn't just about having nice things, it was a status symbol. Silver objects, like this spoon, reflected wealth and social standing. But it’s more than just a display item. The spoon tells us about trade networks, craftmanship, and the burgeoning American economy as silversmiths like Van Voorhis & Schanck established their businesses. Looking closely, we can see the craftsmanship and design, perhaps reflecting popular styles of the time. Examining the records of silversmiths' workshops, account books, and even probate inventories, we can begin to understand the role of objects like this spoon in shaping social relations and cultural values in early America. It reminds us that even the most humble objects can offer insights into the past.