Can with cover c. 18th century

This undecorated can with cover was made by an unknown artist using pewter, a metal alloy prized for its malleability. The can’s octagonal shape and handle attachment demanded skill in shaping and joining. Pewter is relatively soft and melts at a low temperature. This allows for casting, hammering, and soldering. This can might have been made using a combination of these techniques. Pewter's appeal lies in its subdued sheen and ability to convey a sense of simple elegance, which you can see in the can's unadorned surface. Objects like this one reflect a society’s values and practical needs. In this case, the can's functionality is elevated by the inherent beauty of the material. It prompts us to consider the labor and resources involved in its creation. Appreciating the artistry of everyday objects invites us to reconsider traditional hierarchies of art and craft.