Plate (one of a set of twelve)

Art Historical Context

This exquisite silver plate, crafted by London silversmith Thomas Farren in 1715/16, is one of a luxurious set of twelve from the early Georgian era. Measuring just under an inch high and nearly 10 inches across, it weighs a substantial 18 ounces, underscoring the opulence of fine British silverwork. Hallmarked for authenticity, such pieces were hallmarks of elite households, used to display wealth during formal dinners. The plate's defining feature is its engraved coat of arms, a heraldic emblem symbolizing family lineage, status, or allegiance—common in 18th-century decorative arts. Silver, prized for its luster and malleability, was chased, engraved, and polished by skilled artisans like Farren, blending functionality with artistry. These sets evoked grandeur at the table, reflecting Britain's growing prosperity and colonial trade that fueled the silver industry. Today, this treasure resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, a gift from Mrs. Charles Wrightsman in 2012. It offers a glimpse into the refined tastes of Georgian society, where every meal was a statement of prestige.