Miniature child's caudle cup 1680 - 1681

This miniature caudle cup was made in England in the late 17th century by silversmith S H. It’s crafted from a single sheet of silver, skillfully raised and hammered into this delicate form. Note how the smith has allowed the inherent qualities of the material to shine. The hammered surface, which is the result of hard work, catches and reflects light, giving the cup a lively, shimmering quality. The floral decoration around the base and the delicate handles were likely made using the repoussé technique, where the metal is shaped by hammering from the reverse side. Although small, this cup represents considerable investment of skilled labor, embodying a tradition of fine metalworking, but also broader social issues, such as the preciousness of silver and the wealth it signifies. Looking at this object reminds us that even the most functional items can be imbued with artistry and cultural significance, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.