Cruet frame 1725 - 1740

Crafted by Pierre-Noel David, this silver cruet frame features classical motifs that speak volumes about the cultural aspirations of its time. Lion heads adorn the frame, symbols of strength and nobility, deeply rooted in ancient heraldry. Consider how the lion, a primal image of power, transcends cultures, appearing in ancient Near Eastern art and the myths of classical Greece. This emblem, charged with potency, reappears throughout history. Its presence speaks to a desire to imbue everyday objects with a sense of permanence and authority. The repetition of the lion motif taps into a collective, almost subconscious memory. It evokes a potent emotional response, connecting us to age-old ideas of courage and dominance.