Spoon 1701 - 1702

This silver spoon was made in London by Benjamin Watts in the early 18th century. Consider the cultural significance of this object. Silverware like this, was not just functional, but a symbol of status. Making such a piece started with the mining of silver ore, and it took the skills of numerous artisans to refine the material and form it. Think of the silversmith hammering, annealing, and polishing the metal. The hallmarks stamped on the spoon were not just signatures, but guarantees of quality. All these processes reflect a social hierarchy where access to resources and skilled labor defined one's place in society. So, next time you look at a simple spoon, consider the complex story of production, skill, and social meaning it embodies, challenging any rigid distinction between craft and fine art.