Tabaksdoos 1750 - 1800

Johann Heinrich Giese made this brass tobacco box, though we don't know exactly when. The material itself – brass, an alloy of copper and zinc – speaks volumes. Its strength allows for thin walls and crisp edges and would have been relatively affordable. Notice the decoration: text and ornamental flourishes are etched directly into the metal. This was likely done using an acid resist technique, a relatively industrialized process that allowed for the precise reproduction of imagery. The box then, is more than just a container; it is a testament to the rise of capitalism and consumer culture. Tobacco, a globally traded commodity, fueled economies and social interactions alike. This box, made by a skilled artisan using semi-industrial means, reflects the complex relationship between labor, consumption, and artistic expression. Considering the object in terms of materiality, making, and context allows us to see beyond traditional boundaries, recognizing the significance of objects in our daily lives.