Cup with cover 19th century

Editor: Here we have a 19th-century covered cup, made of metal. The profile is given as Franchi and Son, and it lives here at the Met. I notice the floral patterns, and overall, I'd call it an understated opulence, really. What’s your take? Curator: Oh, it whispers secrets of lavish dinners and whispered confidences! When I look at the ornate detailing, the finial, and those delicate handles—I see more than just a vessel, I see a reflection of status, a physical embodiment of a family’s pride, and, of course, all that delicious, delicious tea. It makes you wonder, doesn’t it, what stories it could tell? Does it spark any feelings, knowing it was handcrafted long ago? Editor: It does. I hadn’t thought about that, about its symbolism! I suppose I see the labor involved in such a highly detailed piece, that it took so much skill, it reflects the era’s values in craft. Curator: Precisely. You picked up on its "understated opulence". These objects, they served a dual purpose: functionality, yes, but they were also about *display.* Imagine the glint of candlelight dancing on that metal! Did folks actually sit around in a drawing room just sipping stuff out of this? You know what I mean? It just oozes with bygone customs and lifestyles! Editor: Absolutely. Knowing it comes from Franchi and Son also gives it an historical position. Thinking of it as sculpture—metal sculpture —really shifts my appreciation for it, beyond just décor. Curator: Exactly! And in doing so it raises other questions about value judgements within craft, design, sculpture… So the sculpture/vessel is speaking back at us about who and what we value. We started by seeing some shiny pot but are ending by asking who _are we?_ Amazing. Thanks. Editor: Definitely amazing! I'll never look at silverware the same way again!