Sauceboat 1745 - 1746

This elaborate silver sauceboat was made in the 18th century by Peter Archambo I. Silver objects like this were made by highly skilled silversmiths using techniques such as hammering, casting, and chasing, often working long hours in urban workshops. Consider the qualities of the material. Silver is inherently valuable, and its gleaming surface speaks of wealth and status. But it is also quite soft, meaning that it can be worked into intricate shapes and patterns. The surface of this sauceboat is densely ornamented with cast details and a sculptural handle. The amount of hand work required to create such an object was considerable, making it all the more precious. Such extravagant displays of workmanship were designed to impress, and to affirm the owner’s social position. Yet, the labor that went into the making of such objects was often overlooked. Today, we are interested in closing that gap – appreciating both the artistry and the work that gives objects like this their meaning.