Tea Table 1750 - 1790

Curator: Let’s turn our attention to this elegant "Tea Table," estimated to have been crafted between 1750 and 1790. It resides here at the Art Institute of Chicago and stands as a compelling example of late Baroque furniture made of wood. Editor: Isn't it darling? Something about its petite stature and that gorgeous, gleaming wood gives off this almost fairytale quality—as if tiny creatures are about to gather round for tea! It's wonderfully inviting, in its own quiet way. Curator: Absolutely. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, such tables played a crucial role in solidifying tea rituals in wealthy households. We see the rise of global trade intersecting with emergent gender roles; specifically the lady of the house overseeing the "tea service" as a domestic performance. Editor: The history really brews up with the tea! It’s remarkable how an object so simple speaks of social ambitions and subtle power plays of gender, class and even global markets. And, gosh, it's heavy—literally and metaphorically. Curator: The craftsmanship tells a story as well, especially when viewed through the lens of labor history and material culture. Consider the type of wood and what trade routes existed for this material to be available in Europe and America during this period. Also note the table's ornate carving. What artisan's or enslaved person's hands shaped that beautiful paw foot? Editor: Precisely, the little beast feet grounding it really bring that home, don’t they? I’m drawn to the subtle imperfections, which contrast so nicely with the overall refinement. You see the traces of handcraft, and begin to sense something deeply personal imbued in its creation... perhaps we have a better story to tell through the crafter themselves! Curator: It highlights how material objects can tell stories not always obviously seen when appreciating an object's inherent form and beauty. I hope this has encouraged listeners to reflect upon the socio-economic realities embedded within everyday artifacts. Editor: Yes, here's to unearthing the untold stories within. From a seemingly simple "Tea Table", we encounter reflections on artistry, history and social implications—brewing stories over tea one might never anticipate!