Waiter 1738 - 1739

Editor: We’re looking at "Waiter," made by Edward Feline around 1738 or 1739. It's a petite, three-footed silver plate, and the surface is lightly decorated with a crest. The overall feel is delicate and ornate. What aspects of this piece strike you as particularly significant? Curator: Its Rococo style is evident in its asymmetrical curves and ornamental detail. Note how the scalloped edge deviates from a perfect circle, lending it a dynamic visual quality. The materiality – the silver – inherently implies status, prestige and luxury due to its high cost and reflective surface. Have you considered the surface's irregularities, its apparent tarnish? Editor: Yes, the tarnish gives it character, an authenticity somehow. I also like the raised feet, giving it just enough height. Curator: The elevation of the plate subtly signals importance. More crucial to consider are the proportions and arrangement. Note the delicate feet contrasted against the heavy central plane. This contrast of form draws attention to the overall composition. Do you feel this relates to it's time period at all? Editor: Definitely! It makes me think of ornate French furniture from that era - similar curves, details, and the material indicates the upper class. I never would have considered the contrasts of the design that strongly. Curator: Precisely. The contrasts aren't just stylistic but communicate societal values and hierarchies as well. We understand through form that function isn’t enough, the artist wants more. Editor: Thanks for illuminating those contrasts; I have so much more to think about with this.