Wine cup and saucer c. 20th century

This wine cup and saucer was made by an anonymous artist, and whatever process they used, it's fascinating. I mean, look at how the light catches the silver! The texture here is so alive, like the surface is breathing. There's something about the way the floral patterns and Hebrew lettering have been chased into the metal, a real physical engagement with the material that gives it this incredible depth. If you look closely at the rim, you can see the maker's marks, tiny impressions that tell a story of tools and hands at work. It reminds me of the way Guston would build up layers of paint, each stroke a record of a decision, a feeling. This cup isn't just an object; it’s a performance, a testament to the maker's skill, and a vessel for meaning. It’s a bit like what Eva Hesse did with latex, turning the everyday into something poetic. It's like a silent conversation between the artist and us, across time.