Beaker 1812 - 1830

This sterling silver beaker was crafted by Charles Farley, an American silversmith active in Philadelphia during the first half of the 19th century. At the time, fine silver objects were a tangible display of wealth and status, reflecting aspirations of upward mobility in a burgeoning republic. The beaker's simple, undecorated form speaks to both the Quaker aesthetic prevalent in Philadelphia at the time, and the broader neoclassical tastes which favored elegance and simplicity. The reflective surface of the silver transforms the beaker, turning it into a mirror that reflects the complexities of identity, class, and social aspiration in early America. Farley’s beakers represent more than mere craftsmanship; they embody the values and ambitions of a young nation grappling with questions of identity and belonging. The history of decorative arts helps us understand how everyday objects reflect cultural values.