Beaker 1765 - 1775

This beaker was created by Cary Dunn, a silversmith active in New York during the late 18th century. It is made of silver, hammered and shaped into a simple cylindrical form, then embellished with an engraved monogram. Consider the materiality of silver itself. Its inherent qualities of malleability and reflectivity have made it a prized material for centuries. Silversmiths like Dunn would have possessed a deep understanding of the metal's properties, knowing how to coax it into desired shapes through skillful hammering and annealing. The smooth, polished surface of the beaker speaks to the care and attention given to its making. The engraved monogram adds a personal touch, suggesting the beaker was likely commissioned for a specific individual or family. This object offers insight into the social and economic context of early America, where fine silver was a symbol of wealth and status. By looking closely at materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the full meaning of this seemingly simple beaker, and challenge the traditional divide between fine art and craft.