Noah Teller 1600 - 1615

This is a 'Noah Teller' made by Paulus Öham the younger. Notice the circular form, creating a sense of wholeness reminiscent of Renaissance ideals. This is further emphasized by the concentric structure, with narrative scenes etched in silver. The center depicts Noah's Ark, encircled by rope-like patterns, giving a sense of containment. Around the edge, different scenes present stylized figures, flora and fauna, arranged in distinct capsules. The use of silver as a medium provides a tactile and sensory experience, which shifts as light changes, enhancing the interplay of form and content. Öham destabilizes the traditional role of a plate, turning it into a vehicle for storytelling. Ultimately, this artwork transcends its function to become a semiotic object, inviting viewers to contemplate not only the biblical narrative it presents, but also the cultural values embedded within its intricate design.