Dish Cross 1790 - 1810

This elegant Dish Cross was made by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith active in New York during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Fashioned from silver, a material prized for its lustrous beauty and malleability, this object reflects the refined tastes of its time. Silversmithing demanded a high degree of skill. Brasher would have melted, cast, hammered, and soldered the silver, shaping it into the cross's delicate form. Notice how each component, from the central ring to the supporting legs, is carefully constructed and joined, showcasing Brasher's mastery of the craft. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Dish Cross offers insights into the social context of its creation. As a luxury item, it speaks to the growing wealth and consumer culture of the early American Republic. The labor invested in its production reflects the social hierarchy of the time, with skilled artisans like Brasher catering to the needs of a prosperous elite. By appreciating the materials, making, and social context of this Dish Cross, we gain a deeper understanding of its significance, blurring the boundaries between fine art and craft.