Salver c. 1740 - 1750

This silver salver was crafted by Jacob Hurd sometime in the 18th century. At its heart lies an engraved shield, a silent herald of lineage and legacy. This emblem, encircled by stylized flora, speaks of family pride, status, and the perennial human desire for remembrance. The shield as a motif echoes through history, from ancient Roman insignias to medieval heraldry. It serves not just as a marker of identity but also as a potent symbol of protection and honor. Think of the Greek heroes bearing their shields, or Renaissance portraits where coats of arms declare the sitter's noble origins. It is a visual anchor, linking the past to the present, family to future. The salver, in its gleam and form, becomes more than a mere object; it transforms into a vessel of collective memory. Its symbols tap into a deep, subconscious well, engaging us with stories of aspiration, identity, and the enduring power of symbols across time.