Epergne (Primary Title)
Thomas Pitts, English, active 1737-1793 (Artist)
English goldsmith Thomas Pitts specialized in making grand and dramatic centerpieces for the dining table. Known as epergnes, these decorative and functional assemblages stayed on the table throughout the meal. The tiers of delicately pierced baskets and dishes probably held light edibles and fruit. This work’s restrained classically inspired forms coincided with the era’s appreciation of antiquity, and reflected an owner’s wealth, education, and culture.
Gift of Judith Whitney Godwin in memory of Judith Brewer Godwin
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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