Twelve spoons

Art Historical Context

In the opulent world of 18th-century British table, Paul de Lamerie's *Twelve Spoons* stand as a testament to masterful silversmithing. Crafted in London during the first half of 1700s, this set of silver gilt spoons—each elegantly measuring 6 3/4 inches (17.1 cm) long—exudes the refined luxury of the Georgian era. De Lamerie, a Huguenot immigrant and one of England's most celebrated silversmiths, registered his mark in 1712 and became synonymous with high-end commissions for the aristocracy. Silver gilt, created by applying a thin layer of gold over silver through electroplating or fire-gilding techniques, not only enhanced durability and shine but also symbolized wealth and status. These spoons likely served in formal dining settings, where intricate chasing and piercing showcased the Rococo style's playful curves and natural motifs, blending functionality with artistry. A generous gift to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1958 from George D. Widener and Mrs. Eleanor Widener Dixon, this set invites visitors to appreciate the cultural pinnacle of British metalwork, where everyday objects became heirlooms of exceptional craftsmanship.

About the Artist

Paul de Lamerie · 1688–1751

Paul de Lamerie was born on April 9, 1688, in 's-Hertogenbosch in the Dutch Republic, the son of Paul Souchay de la Merie, a French Huguenot nobleman who had fled France following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 and subsequently served as an officer under William III of Orange. The family settled in London by 1691, and young Paul grew up in a community of skilled Huguenot craftsmen w...