Miniature wine taster or mustard dish 17th century

This small silver wine taster, crafted by C S in the 17th century, is adorned with circular motifs, each radiating lines. These designs, reminiscent of stars or flowers, evoke a sense of cosmic harmony and natural abundance, reflecting humanity’s perennial effort to find order and beauty in the universe. Such symbols are not confined to this era; similar radiating designs can be seen in ancient Mesopotamian art, where they represented deities and celestial bodies. The imagery may have evolved, shifting from religious iconography to decorative motifs, yet the underlying human impulse remains consistent: to capture the sublime in visual form. There is a psychological aspect of these radiant patterns that taps into our collective unconscious. These symbols of light and growth resonate deeply, evoking a sense of hope and vitality that transcends time. As we consider its journey, this humble wine taster becomes more than just a functional object. It becomes a vessel carrying the echoes of shared human experiences.