Pair of perfume bottles 1700 - 1701

Curator: Ah, yes, these intriguing objects are a Pair of Perfume Bottles, dating from 1700 to 1701. Crafted from silver, they reside here at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: They're quite striking. I'm immediately drawn to the juxtaposition of the sharp, rectangular bodies against the ornate, almost bulbous tops. How do you approach understanding a work like this? Curator: Formally, we must observe how line, shape, and material interplay to create meaning. Note the repetition of horizontal lines—at the base, the top, and even within the engraved crest. What effect does this repetition achieve? Editor: I suppose it provides a sense of stability and order, contrasting with the more decorative, flowing lines within the crest itself. And what about the overall structure? Is there anything particularly interesting there? Curator: Absolutely. Consider how the artist uses a simple geometric form – the rectangular body - as a canvas for ornamentation. The applied crest and decorative top transform a purely functional object into something aesthetically elevated. Notice also the subtle gradations of light reflecting on the polished silver surfaces. It adds depth and complexity. Editor: That makes sense. So, it's about the relationship between the different visual elements and how they contribute to the overall impact. I see how understanding those relationships can unlock deeper insights. What is the purpose of the circular ornaments that are applied to each container's handle? Curator: They soften the severe square of the box, while also breaking the continuity of the flat metal planes. Editor: So interesting. Thank you for that observation. Now I can appreciate the formal characteristics.