Dishes (two from a set of six) 1746 - 1747

These two silver dishes, part of a set of six, were crafted by Paul de Lamerie, a renowned silversmith active in 18th-century England. Their simple, elegant design reflects the refined tastes of the Georgian elite. But these aren't just pretty objects; they're historical artifacts that speak to the social and economic structures of their time. Silverware like this was a status symbol, a way for wealthy families to display their affluence and sophistication. Consider the source of the silver itself, likely mined by enslaved people in the Americas, and the labor involved in its production, which was often carried out by skilled artisans working long hours in urban workshops. To truly understand these dishes, we need to delve into the archives, examining trade records, social histories, and biographical accounts of both the silversmith and his patrons. Only then can we fully appreciate the complex web of social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped their creation and reception.