Hangtreeft 1734

This delicate silver "hangtreeft," or pot stand, was crafted in the 18th century by Frederik van Strant II. It shows how even the most functional object can be elevated through skilled craftsmanship. Made of thin, gleaming silver, the stand’s triangular frame and detailed base speak to the silversmith's mastery of metalworking. Consider the labor involved in transforming raw silver into this elegant form, likely using techniques like hammering, soldering, and filing. The silversmith would have needed a deep understanding of the material, carefully shaping it while maintaining its structural integrity. It invites us to think about the skilled labor that went into its creation, and its purpose within a domestic setting. By considering its materials, making, and use, we gain a richer appreciation of this small but significant object, blurring the boundaries between the functional and the artistic.