Tray (part of a service) 1809 - 1819

This silver tray, part of a larger service, was crafted by Marc Jacquart in the late 18th or early 19th century. It is adorned with Neoclassical motifs—figures in classical garb, friezes of palmettes, and acanthus leaves. These motifs hearken back to ancient Greece and Rome, embodying ideals of order, reason, and harmony. Observe how the figures are poised in serene contemplation, evoking a sense of timelessness. Consider the symbol of the acanthus leaf, found here and also on the columns of ancient temples. Its stylized form has been revived throughout history, appearing in Renaissance paintings and Baroque sculptures, each time imbued with a sense of classical grandeur. These recurring symbols tap into our collective memory, stirring feelings of nostalgia and connection to the past. The cool, polished surface of the silver further enhances this sense of detachment, inviting us to contemplate the enduring power of classical ideals.