Taperstick 1798 - 1799

This silver taperstick was created by Nathaniel Smith and Company, though the date of production is unknown. This object’s value lies not just in the preciousness of its material, but also in the silversmith's skill. The silversmith would have used techniques such as casting, forging, and soldering, all requiring years of training to master. Notice the way the silver is formed into a smooth, reflective surface, and the delicate chain connecting the taperstick to its conical snuffer. The taperstick would have been an essential tool for sealing letters with wax, as the form factor and handle allowed for easy manipulation of the lit candle. An object like this speaks volumes about the division of labor. While the elite would have enjoyed its convenience, specialized artisans labored to create it. Considering the social context and the skilled labor involved helps us appreciate the taperstick not just as a functional object, but as a symbol of the complex relationships between labor, consumption, and social class.