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Silver commemorative spoon, Sesostris, G.W. Pierkens, Bolsward, c. 1700

Silver commemorative spoon, Sesostris, G.W. Pierkens, Bolsward, c. 1700

Regular price €425,00 EUR
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Discover a masterpiece of Frisian silversmithing: an extremely rare, museum-quality silver commemorative spoon. This highlight was crafted around 1700 in Bolsward by the prominent and sought-after master silversmith Gerrit Willem Pierkens. The spoon is a magnificent example of the high-quality luxury goods produced in Frisian cities in the early 18th century.

Gerrit Willem Pierkens (Bolsward, *1670 – † after 1722) was admitted as a master to the prestigious guild of Bolsward in 1694. He was known for his versatile craftsmanship; in addition to refined commemorative spoons, he also created larger, complex silver utensils such as richly repoussé tea canisters.

His maker's mark, the six-pointed star (registered in professional literature as Friese Voet no. 55), is located on the back of the bowl. During this early period, Frisian silversmiths often struck only their maker's mark on commemorative spoons (without city marks or date letters), which was permitted by guild regulations at the time for this specific type of 'free work'.

The refined engraving on the back is not merely a decorative image, but carries a profound historical and moral message:
  • The lesson in humility (The story of the turning wheels): The motif reflects the classical tale of the legendary Egyptian king Sesostris, which was highly popular at the time. To demonstrate his absolute power, the arrogant Sesostris had his triumphal chariot pulled by four conquered kings instead of horses. During the procession, he noticed that one of the captive kings kept staring, fascinated, at the turning wheels. When Sesostris asked why, the defeated king replied:
    "I watch the wheel and see how the highest point becomes the very lowest in a single turn, and the lowest point becomes the highest again. That reminds me of my own fate: yesterday I was the highest king, today I pull your chariot. But who is to say the wheel will not turn for you as well?"
    This response struck Sesostris so deeply that he realized the transience of power. Fearing fate (Fortuna) and the gods, he immediately released the four kings and restored their dignity. In the 17th and 18th centuries, this was a popular vanitas symbol and a powerful warning against pride (hubris).
Specifications:
  • Silversmith: Gerrit Willem Pierkens (master in 1694)
  • Place of origin: Bolsward, Friesland
  • Dating: c. 1700
  • Hallmarks: Maker's mark six-pointed star (Friese Voet no. 55)
  • Decoration: Hand engraving 'Chariot of Sesostris' & figure finial 'Peace'
  • Length: 177 mm
  • Weight: 52.0 grams
  • Condition: In excellent, authentic condition with razor-sharp engraving and a beautiful, original patina.
A unique and valuable collector's item for serious enthusiasts of early Frisian silver and antique Dutch silversmithing!
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Silver commemorative spoon, Sesostris, G.W. Pierkens, Bolsward, c. 1700
Silver commemorative spoon, Sesostris, G.W. Pierkens, Bolsward, c. 1700
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