Dimensions: height 12.8 cm, width 9.2 cm, depth 3.2 cm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This miniature cupboard was created by Hermanus Heuvel in the eighteenth century, and it is made of silver. Working with precious metals like silver involves specialized tools and techniques, such as hammering, soldering, and engraving. The material dictates the form, with the silversmith carefully shaping the metal to create the delicate curves and intricate details we see here. Silver also holds a certain cultural significance, often associated with luxury and status. Its reflective surface adds to the cupboard's elegance, transforming it into a prized object. Consider the labour and skill required to produce this work. Silversmithing has a long history, demanding expertise passed down through generations. The creation of such a piece goes beyond mere utility. By considering the materials, making, and context, we gain a deeper understanding of this cupboard and its place in the world of art.
Comments
Hermanus Heuvel is renowned above all for his largescale silver objects. This cupboard is his only known miniature and must thus have been a special commission. Its form closely imitates a large wooden cupboard: the drawers and doors can open and the silversmith has even copied the construction. The doors consist of two panels, affixed to each other on the inside by tenon-and-mortise joints.
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