Cup 1745 - 1755

This silver cup, standing at 7 inches, was crafted by M. D. O. Cups like this one weren't just for drinking; they reflected social status and taste. Silver, a precious metal, was a sign of wealth, and the craftsmanship involved in creating such a piece indicated a sophisticated culture. Think about the era in which this was made. Was it a time of exploration and trade, where new materials and designs were being exchanged? Was it a period of strict social hierarchies, where objects like these reinforced class distinctions? Was it made in the American colonies, and if so what do we know about silversmiths at the time? How were they trained? Did they have access to the same resources as their counterparts in Europe? By examining historical records, trade routes, and the biographies of artists and patrons, we can start to understand the complex relationship between art and society, revealing the values and power structures of the past.