Plate 1892

This octagonal plate was crafted from silver by James Garrard, a prominent silversmith operating in London during the late 18th century. Objects like this plate offer a fascinating glimpse into the social stratification of Georgian England. Silverware was not merely functional, it was a potent symbol of wealth and status. Garrard catered to an elite clientele eager to display their affluence through meticulously crafted objects for the home. The crest on the plate would have signified a family connection. The opulence of such items stands in stark contrast to the lives of the working class, many of whom lived in poverty. Studying objects like this involves archival research into family histories and the records of London's livery companies which regulated trades such as silversmithing. These help us understand the economic structures and social norms that shaped artistic production during this period.