Double beaker 1593 - 1602

This "Double beaker" was crafted by Georg Rühl in the early 17th century, using mother-of-pearl and gilt silver. In the 17th century, the mother-of-pearl was a highly prized material, symbolizing purity and status. During this period of religious conflict and social stratification, even an everyday object like a drinking vessel becomes a potent signifier. The barrel form itself suggests communal gatherings and perhaps even revelry, yet the precious materials elevate it beyond mere utility. The choice of mother-of-pearl, with its iridescent sheen, contrasts sharply with the ruggedness typically associated with barrels, offering a glimpse into the values of a society where beauty and display were intertwined with power and identity. How might such an object complicate or reinforce societal norms? Its delicate beauty invites us to reflect on the tensions between fragility and strength, luxury and necessity, in both historical and contemporary contexts.