Broth bowl with cover (Écuelle)
Not on view
An écuelle is a lidded bowl with two handles, often provided with a matching saucer or stand, used for serving hot broth or bouillon. During the late seventeenth and eighteenth century, broth was taken during the morning toilette but also offered to new mothers, as well as to the sick and bed-ridden to regain their strength. For that reason, écuelles were intended for private use in the bedroom.
This écuelle strongly resembles in form silver examples in The Met’s collection, such as 48.187.11a, b and 48.187.6a, b. Although of a modest material, this bowl is nevertheless decorated with sophisticated Bérain-esque chasing on the cover and handles. Unmarked, the style would indicate a date after the first quarter of the 18th century.
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