Plate (one of a set of twelve)

Art Historical Context

This elegant silver plate, crafted by London silversmith Thomas Far in 1715/16, is one of a luxurious set of twelve, exemplifying the finest British metalwork of the early Georgian era. Measuring just over 13/16 by 9 5/8 inches and weighing a substantial 19 ounces, it reflects the opulence of elite dining tables during the reign of George I. Such sets were status symbols for the aristocracy, showcasing the precision of London-trained craftsmen whose hallmarks guaranteed authenticity and quality. Silver as a medium held immense cultural prestige in 18th-century Britain, symbolizing wealth and hospitality. Farren's work aligns with the period's shift toward restrained yet refined designs, influenced by classical motifs and the burgeoning Grand Tour aesthetic. These plates would have gleamed under candlelight at formal banquets, their heft underscoring durability for repeated use. Now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts Department—thanks to the generous gift of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman in 2012—this piece invites us to savor the artistry of everyday luxury from three centuries past.