Onderschotel, versierd met bladertakken 1763 - 1764

This silver stand, decorated with leaf sprigs, was crafted by Engelbart Joosten in the 18th century. In the Dutch Republic at this time, silver wasn't just a material; it was a statement. Pieces like this reflected not only wealth but also a certain aspiration to elegance. They speak to the intricate dance between luxury and nature that defined elite lifestyles. Joosten’s choice to adorn this piece with foliage invites us to consider the relationship between the domestic sphere and the natural world. In this light, the meticulously crafted leaves don’t just decorate; they transform the stand into a microcosm of cultivated nature, brought indoors. These silver objects served as silent markers of social identity. What narratives did they perform when set on a table? What conversations did their gleam spark among guests? This silver stand transcends its utilitarian purpose. It becomes a reflective surface for the stories of those who lived amongst such objects.