Spoon 1650 - 1675

This is a silver spoon, made by Thomas Nilsen in the 17th century. It is an object made from a precious metal and designed for everyday use, yet elevated to something more. Note the hammered form, giving shape to the bowl of the spoon, along with the engraved floral decorations on the handle. These features highlight the inherent qualities of the material – its malleability and capacity to take a shine. The making of this spoon likely involved a silversmithing workshop, with skilled artisans employing techniques passed down through generations. The spoon is more than a functional item, it is an expression of wealth and status. It reflects the rising merchant class and their desire for refined domestic goods. It blurs the boundaries between craft and fine art, raising questions about value, labor, and the cultural significance of everyday objects.