Pair of pomade pots (part of a toilet service)
ca. 1684
Medium
Silver gilt
Dimensions
Overall: H. 2 3/16 x W. 2 x D. 2 in., 3 oz. 4 dwt. (5.6 x 5.1 x 5.1 cm, 0.1kg)
Classification
Metalwork-Silver
Culture
British, London
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Fletcher Fund, 1963
Accession Number
63.70.18a, b, .19a, b
Tags
Art Historical Context
Crafted around 1684 by London silversmith Thomas Jenkins, this exquisite pair of pomade pots forms part of a grand toilet service—a luxurious ensemble of vessels for personal grooming used by the British elite during the late Stuart era. Made of silver gilt, where a thin layer of gold is applied over silver for a radiant, durable finish, these petite pots (just over 2 inches tall) exemplify the opulence of Restoration England. Their compact size belies their status as cherished possessions, holding pomade, a scented ointment for hair and skin. Adorned with delicate motifs of birds and flowers...