Kwispedoor 1760

This small, silver 'kwispedoor', or spittoon, was crafted by Johannes van Somerwil in the 18th century. During this time, tobacco use was widespread, and accessories like this were common in both public and private spaces. Reflecting on this object, one has to consider the intersection of class, gender, and health. Often, it was wealthy men who indulged in tobacco, projecting an image of affluence. A spittoon like this, therefore, becomes symbolic of status, but also raises questions about the performative aspects of masculinity and the health consequences often ignored. It's a quiet witness to daily rituals, reflecting societal norms around indulgence and display. Consider its small size and the intimacy of its intended use. The kwispedoor holds a certain discomfort when viewed through a contemporary lens, prompting us to confront changing attitudes towards the body, health, and social etiquette.