Bowl and Cover 1700 - 1701

Editor: This "Bowl and Cover" is a striking silver piece by Robert Cooper. I’m curious about the engraving of the sea monster. What do you see in this piece beyond its obvious craftsmanship? Curator: This piece reflects the power structures of the era. Silverware like this wasn't just decorative; it was a symbol of wealth accumulated, often through colonial exploitation and trade. Do you see how the sea monster might connect to this? Editor: Hmm, perhaps a reference to maritime trade routes and England’s naval dominance? Curator: Exactly! And who benefited from that dominance? Who was excluded? Recognizing these layers helps us understand the complex social narratives embedded within even seemingly simple objects. Editor: That’s a perspective I hadn’t considered. Thanks for illuminating the deeper story behind this object. Curator: My pleasure. It's about understanding whose stories are told and, crucially, whose are left out.