Two-Handled Cup and Cover 1739 - 1740

This silver Two-Handled Cup and Cover was crafted by Paul de Lamerie, a master silversmith, and it embodies the opulence of its time. The cup is adorned with elaborate floral motifs, emblematic of growth, prosperity, and the beauty of nature. These symbols have ancient roots, harking back to classical antiquity where floral garlands signified celebration and the bounty of the earth. Similar motifs appear in Renaissance paintings and Roman sculptures, each time adapted and reinterpreted, yet always carrying echoes of their original meaning. Think of Botticelli's Primavera, where Flora scatters blossoms, or the cornucopia in Roman art overflowing with nature's gifts. Here, the abundant floral decoration may reflect a collective desire for harmony and order, amidst the uncertainties of life. The act of embellishing an object with these symbols isn’t merely decorative; it is a profound statement about humanity’s relationship with nature, engaging us on a subconscious level. This silver cup shows us how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, continually reflecting the changing currents of human experience.