Six dessert spoons

Art Historical Context

Crafted in 18th-century Dublin by silversmith Christopher Skinner, six dessert spoons exemplify the metalwork of Georgian-era Ireland. Each spoon measures 6 3/8 inches in length and is fashioned from silver gilt—a luxurious technique where a thin layer of gold is applied over silver, creating a radiant, durable finish that combined affordability with opulence. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art 1988 through a generous anonymous gift, they now reside in the European Sculpture andative Arts collection, highlighting Skinner's mastery within Dublin's thriving silver trade. Dublin silver was renowned across Europe for its high quality and intricate hallmarks, which authenticated the maker, assay office, and purity. These spoons, classified as metalwork-silver, would have graced the dessert courses of affluent Irish households, where tableware served as a subtle display of wealth and refinement. The compact size suited formal dining rituals of the time, blending functionality with elegant proportions. Skinner's work reflects Ireland's vibrant decorative arts scene amid the 1700s economic boom, when silver exports flourished. Visitors to The Met can appreciate how such pieces preserve the tactile artistry of a bygone era, inviting us to imagine the clink of gilt spoons amid candlelit banquets.