Tureen and Stand
Artist: Paul Crespin (British (born France), 1693/94-1770)
Date: 1740-1741
Dimensions:
overall: 14 3/16 x 21 7/16 in. (36 x 54.5 cm)
Medium: sterling silver
Place of Origin: London, England
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Florence Scott Libbey Bequest in Memory of her Father, Maurice A. Scott
Object number: 1964.51A-D
Label Text:This magnificent soup tureen’s function is almost entirely hidden by its elaborate sculptural ornament. The tureen itself—encrusted with fruits and flowers and cushioned by garlands of delicately rendered flowers—rests on the backs of two reclining goats. The goats’ heads are part of the tureen, but when the vessel is placed on its stand, as displayed here, the neck of each goat rests on an upturned scroll. The asymmetrical but well-balanced design keeps the eye moving restlessly from one nature-inspired detail to the next—the fur of the goats, the dimpled skin of the lemons, and the intricate flowers and leaves.
One of the finest examples of English Rococo silver, the tureen may have been owned by Charles Seymour, Duke of Somerset (1662–1748), whose family crest is engraved on the tureen’s liner.
One of the finest examples of English Rococo silver, the tureen may have been owned by Charles Seymour, Duke of Somerset (1662–1748), whose family crest is engraved on the tureen’s liner.
DescriptionSilver tureen with stand, cover, and liner.
On view
In Collection(s)