Sauce Boat c. 18th century

This sauce boat, created by Daniel Smith, is made of gleaming silver. Silver is an incredibly malleable material and has been crafted using techniques such as hammering, chasing, and engraving. The material's reflective surface amplifies the elaborate ornamentation, drawing attention to the detailed floral motifs and the elegantly curved handle. Notice the tiny feet, each a miniature work of art. The sheer amount of work involved speaks to the value placed on fine dining and display. Consider the social context: silver objects like this were not merely functional, but potent symbols of wealth and status. The silversmith would have been a highly skilled artisan, his labor contributing to the overall impression of luxury. Understanding the material and the making helps us appreciate the cultural significance of this object, and how it transcends the boundary between craft and fine art.