Section of a spoon handle 1782 - 1783

This is a section of a silver spoon handle, created by Nicolas Gonthier, who was born in 1738. Though an everyday object, this spoon offers a glimpse into the rituals, class distinctions and artistry of 18th-century dining. Notice the carefully wrought emblems. These weren't merely decorative; they signaled status, heritage, and allegiance. Silverware, during Gonthier’s time, was more than just a utensil. It was a canvas upon which families inscribed their identities. Consider the marks here. They’re not just the artist’s signature but a claim of quality, a testament to the silversmith's skill within a rigid guild system. The spoon whispers stories of social mobility, of artisans striving for recognition and wealth in a world where lineage often overshadowed talent. It reflects aspirations, and the quiet drama of domestic life.