Soup ladle

The mid-18th century marked the beginning of a period of significant economic development for Szczecin, driven by reforms introduced by the King of Prussia, Frederick William I (1688–1740), after the city came under Prussian rule in 1720. The increasingly affluent townspeople eagerly displayed their status by surrounding themselves with luxury items, including silverware. Much like in Berlin, which served as Szczecin's closest source of inspiration, table silver was particularly fashionable: tureens, bowls, sugar bowls, spice containers, cream jugs, and cutlery. Among the latter, the most impressive items were soup ladles with hemispherical, deep bowls and long, slightly curved handles.

The presented ladle, crafted by Szczecin silversmith Johann Friedrich Timm (c. 1700–1782), exemplifies a striking rococo-style soup ladle. Characteristic elements of this style included lightness, asymmetry, undulating lines, rocaille imitating whimsically shaped shells or ocean waves, delicate floral motifs, and later, rooster comb designs.

Rococo ornamentation appeared in Szczecin silverwork around the mid-18th century and persisted until the end of the century. In addition to Johann Friedrich Timm, the most renowned silversmiths working in this style were Paul Miercke (1714–1784) and Rudolf Albert Giese (circa 1736–1808).

Monika Frankowska-Makała