Accession Number

2008.012.0001

Alternate object names

Filigree Tray;Tray

Creation Date

circa 1620

Description

Chargers are large decorative dish supports for a formal table setting. They were designed to hold and frame a plate or platter, and offer an elegant, artistic flair to the table. They could be removed with the plate they held or remain at the table between servings or meals as décor. There were multiple examples of filigree chargers on the Atocha, and though of varying size, they all had the same pattern, implying they were part of a matched set. See also 2008.012.0002--2008.0012.0011.

Exhibition Label

Case/Object Caption (2023):

Chargers
Silver (c.1620)
Gifts of Taffi Fisher-Abt, Harris Foundation/Museum Acquisition Fund, Jamestown Inc.
2006.011.0001, 2007.011.0001, 2008.012.0001, 1986.008.1730 

On formal occasions, wealthy people used chargers to add grandeur to more practical tableware. Chargers would stay in place on the table, elegantly framing different plates of food for each course, or servants would carry a laden platter into the dining room on a charger. Chargers were a way for the host to demonstrate his or her wealth while showing respect for guests by offering them food in the most lavish possible way.

There were multiple examples of filigree chargers on the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, and though of varying size, they all had the same pattern, suggesting they were part of a matched set.