Coffee spoon (one of a pair)
ca. 1743–45
Medium
Silver gilt
Dimensions
Overall: L. 4 11/16 x W. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Silver
Culture
German, Augsburg
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation Gift, in memory of Stephen M. Kellen, 2005
Accession Number
2005.364.34
Art Historical Context
This exquisite coffee spoon, one of a matching pair crafted by Abraham Warnberger III around 1743–45, exemplifies the pinnacle of Augsburg silversmithing during the Rococo era. Hailing from Germany’s renowned metalworking hub of Augsburg, the spoon measures a delicate 4 11/16 inches in length and 7/8 inches in width its silver gilt surface gleaming with a luxurious gold wash that elevated everyday silverware to opulent status. Warnberger, part of a family dynasty of goldsmiths, showcased the meticulous chasing, engraving, and gilding techniques that made Augsburg silver coveted across Europe. ...