Snuffers and tray 1725 - 1730

Editor: We're looking at a baroque "Snuffers and tray" made between 1725 and 1730 by Gabriel Tillet. It's made of silver, and it's currently held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The craftsmanship is astonishing. I'm immediately struck by the heraldic crest. What can you tell me about the symbolism on the piece? Curator: The heraldic crest immediately signifies social status and a link to tradition. But notice also how this emblem sits above the practical tools meant for extinguishing candles. There is a subtle dance between power, ritual, and the mundane activities of daily life, no? What could these repeated symbols communicate about their owner’s world view? Editor: Perhaps they served as a constant reminder of their position? How would you describe the emotional weight these objects carried? Curator: Beyond the immediate function of trimming candle wicks, these objects become potent symbols themselves. Consider the flame: traditionally representing enlightenment, spirituality, but also ephemerality. The snuffers control that flame, echoing how one manages both their inner life and public persona. Baroque art loves to blend symbolism, reminding us that meaning isn't always overt. What associations does the act of snuffing evoke for you, looking at it now? Editor: Control and order, definitely. Perhaps even the suppression of something… But is that too modern an interpretation? Curator: Perhaps! That tension you feel is inherent to visual symbolism. Our personal contexts always meet the older intention embedded within it. Consider it as an invitation to build layers of significance. It is fascinating to consider objects beyond the practical value; thank you for seeing that too. Editor: This was very insightful. I never thought about everyday objects carrying such encoded information!