Lepelvaas met 12 lepels 1802

Cornelis Knuysting crafted this silver spoon vase, holding twelve spoons, sometime during his lifetime between 1730 and 1812. It embodies the culture of luxury prevalent in the Dutch Republic during that era. The intricate design and precious material speak to the wealth and social status of its intended owner. Silverware was not merely functional; it was a display of affluence. The vase's design, with its delicate latticework and ornate detailing, reflects the aesthetic preferences of the time, influenced by both local traditions and international trends. To truly understand this piece, we delve into the economic structures of the Dutch Republic. Its global trade fueled the accumulation of wealth, enabling the creation and consumption of luxury goods like this. By researching guild records, probate inventories, and merchant correspondence, we gain insight into the social conditions that shaped Knuysting’s production and the aspirations of those who commissioned such exquisite objects. This vase isn't just a container for spoons; it's a material artifact loaded with social and historical meaning.