Porringer with cover (Écuelle) 1759

This silver porringer with a cover, or *écuelle*, was created in 1759 by French silversmith Philippe Lafourge. The *écuelle* is decorated with intricate engraved floral motifs and geometric patterns, with the lid topped by a finial in the form of a stylized fruit or flower. This piece is an excellent example of the craftsmanship and artistry of French silversmithing during the Rococo period, a style characterized by its elegant curves and ornate decorations. The piece, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, showcases the skill and artistry of Lafourge, who was a prominent figure in the French silversmithing scene for over a century.