Pincushion 1887 - 1911

This delicate pincushion was crafted by André Aucoc, a French goldsmith, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The piece is a fascinating window into the domestic sphere of the French upper classes, highlighting the importance placed on handcrafted luxury items. The gilded silver, mother-of-pearl inlays, and the repeating fleur-de-lis motifs speak to a culture steeped in tradition and a desire to display wealth and status through even the most utilitarian objects. The intricate detailing reflects the high level of craftsmanship valued by elite consumers in France, supported by institutions such as design schools and trade guilds that promoted excellence in decorative arts. Analyzing design catalogs and archival records from firms like Aucoc can help us to understand the social networks and the cultural values that gave rise to such exquisitely crafted objects.