Salver 19th century

This large serving dish, known as a salver, was made by the workshop of Franchi and Son. It is made of gilded silver. Now, silver is a soft metal, so to achieve this level of detail, the makers would have employed a technique called 'repoussé,' hammering the design from the reverse side. The gilding process involves applying a thin layer of gold to the surface, enhancing its visual appeal and value. The choice of precious materials indicates a wealthy patron, someone eager to display status. The scenes themselves seem to be classical in nature, further indication of the owner's taste. Think about the number of skilled artisans involved in creating this object. From the silversmiths with their hammers, to the gilders with their delicate brushes. The salver embodies both artistic and economic value, reflecting the social structure of its time, and blurring the line between artistry and labor.