Spoon

Art Historical Context

This delicate 15th-century French, crafted by an unknown artist, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of medieval enamelwork. Measuring just 6¾ inches long, it features painted enamel on silver with parcel-gilding—partial gold leafing that adds a luxurious shimmer. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval department (acquired through the Rogers Fund in 8), this small utensil was likely a status symbol for the elite, blending everyday utility with opulent decoration. Painted enamels, a of French workshops like those in Limoges, involved applying finely ground glass colors onto a ...