Two-handled cup 1728 - 1729

This two-handled cup was made by Christopher Locker, a silversmith active in England between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The cup's design, with its elegant curves and prominent handles, speaks to the wealth and status of its original owner, whose coat of arms is emblazoned on its side. This wasn't just a drinking vessel; it was a display of social standing. The institutional history of objects like these can tell us a lot about the social structures of the time. Silverware was a luxury, and owning such a piece signaled membership in the upper echelons of English society. To fully understand the cup's significance, we might delve into genealogical records to identify the family crest, trace the history of silver craftsmanship in England, and examine the economic conditions that allowed for such displays of wealth. Approaching art through this lens transforms a simple cup into a rich source of historical insight.