Set of four dishes 1745 - 1746

These four silver dishes were crafted by Paul de Lamerie, a master silversmith active in the 18th century. Notice the octagonal shape, a recurring motif in decorative arts, symbolizing regeneration and rebirth across cultures, from ancient Egypt to Renaissance alchemy. Observe how the shell motifs adorning the edges of the dishes echo those found in Botticelli’s "Birth of Venus." The shell, traditionally associated with pilgrimage and Aphrodite, goddess of love, is a symbol of life's journey and spiritual awakening. This symbol transcends time; think of the scallop shell worn by pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. The subconscious allure of these symbols speaks to a deep, collective memory. Just as the human psyche seeks patterns and meaning, these motifs resonate with our understanding of cyclical existence. The shell, passed down through history, reminds us of the enduring power of symbols to evoke emotion and engage the viewer on a profound level.