Tankard 1679 - 1680

This tankard was crafted by Charles Roades, a silversmith active until 1707. Here, one is immediately struck by the visual weight and reflective quality of the metal. The cylindrical form of the tankard is accentuated by horizontal bands at the top and base, creating a sense of grounded stability. A curved handle, adorned with decorative elements, offers an elegant contrast to the unornamented body, introducing a dynamic tension between simplicity and elaboration. The smooth, polished surface invites touch, but also suggests a certain austerity, typical of functional objects. Yet the tankard is not purely utilitarian; the attention to form and detail elevates it to an object of visual interest. The interplay between geometric precision and understated ornamentation speaks to the cultural values of its time. This emphasis on functionality and restrained embellishment is evident in the design of the object. This approach suggests a world where utility and aesthetic consideration are not mutually exclusive, but are harmoniously integrated.