Écuelle 1685 - 1715

This is a silver Écuelle, or lidded bowl, likely crafted by P. G. L. While seemingly a simple vessel, it carries echoes of cultural memory. Observe the engraved floral motifs, a symbol of nature's bounty and, by extension, domestic harmony and prosperity. These botanical representations, reminiscent of ancient Minoan frescoes or even the floral patterns adorning Etruscan pottery, illustrate our enduring connection to nature. Even the triangular patterns bordering the lid are a motif as old as time itself, appearing everywhere, from ancient pottery to the modern-day. Consider how the act of sharing a meal from such a vessel evokes feelings of community and nurture. The emotional weight of this simple bowl lies in its connection to these elemental, timeless themes. It is not merely an object; it is a vessel of memory. These symbols carry a powerful force engaging viewers on a subconscious level. Like all symbols, the cyclical progression of these botanical and geometric motifs have resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.