Six knives 1700 - 1750

These six knives were crafted in the 18th century by Paul de Lamerie, a silversmith of Huguenot heritage working in London. De Lamerie's identity as an immigrant undoubtedly shaped his artistic vision, positioning him between cultures and traditions. These silver knives, with their elegant curves and understated embellishments, speak to the intricate dance between utility and status. Silverware of this quality was not merely functional, it signified wealth, taste, and belonging within a particular social stratum. Consider the emotional weight carried by such objects: a family's history, the rituals of dining, the silent language of social decorum. They offer insight into the performance of identity and class, revealing the power dynamics embedded within seemingly mundane objects. They prompt us to consider how everyday items can embody complex narratives about who we are and where we belong.