Pair of casters 1714 - 1715

These casters were made in the early 18th century by John Chartier, and they're formed from gleaming silver. The silversmith would have melted the silver and then used techniques such as hammering, casting, and chasing to form the shape of the casters, creating the octagonal bodies. These were luxury items, and the material itself reflects the wealth of the patron who commissioned them. The pierced tops, designed to sprinkle spices, are particularly intricate. Notice the contrast between the solid, weighty bases and the delicate, almost lace-like quality of the lids. The amount of skilled labor that went into these objects is really remarkable. It elevates them beyond mere utility, and speaks to the status of their owner. Considering these casters, we can appreciate how the choice of material and the act of making can transform everyday objects into works of art.