Twelve spoons 1700 - 1750

These twelve spoons were made by Paul de Lamerie, probably in London, entirely of hand-wrought silver. Silver is a wonderfully ductile material, meaning it can be easily worked and shaped. The silversmith would have used a variety of hammers to forge the metal, gradually coaxing it into the desired form. Note the subtle shaping of the spoon's bowl, handle, and the delicate cast ornament where the two elements join. Each of these features required specialized skills, ones acquired through years of apprenticeship. These spoons testify to the close relationship between craft and commerce in the 18th century. De Lamerie was one of the leading silversmiths of his day, catering to a wealthy clientele eager to display their status through beautifully made objects. While seemingly simple, these spoons represent a complex interplay of material, skill, and social aspiration. Appreciating them fully means recognizing the labor and the cultural context embedded in their creation.