Collection cup 1697 - 1709

This collection cup was crafted by Guillaume Le Roy, a master silversmith in late 17th to early 18th century France, an era marked by the opulence of the French court and stark social inequalities. Crafted from silver, this cup embodies the paradox of its time. Silver, a symbol of wealth, contrasts with the cup’s intended purpose, to collect alms for the poor. The inscription "M. HOVEL" possibly marks it as a donation from or for a specific benefactor or institution, revealing layers of social responsibility and identity. The cup invites us to consider the intersection of luxury and charity, prompting reflection on the responsibilities of wealth and the complex social dynamics that shape our interactions. It is a reminder of how objects can embody the tensions between personal identity, societal roles, and collective values.