Caster c. 1694 - 1695

This silver caster was crafted by George Garthorne in England in the late 17th century. Such objects speak to the development of modern dining culture, and its attendant social rituals. The caster is a visually intriguing object. Its cylindrical form is adorned with delicate pierced decoration. It is a testament to the sophisticated craftsmanship of the period. England at this time was becoming a hub of global trade, and a newly wealthy merchant class fueled a demand for luxury goods. Silversmiths like Garthorne catered to the aristocracy and upwardly mobile, producing items that reflected their status and taste. Silver, of course, signaled wealth and refinement. But the caster also speaks to the evolving culinary habits of the time. The historian brings objects like this to life by looking at probate records and merchants’ inventories. By doing so, we can start to understand the cultural values that they embodied.