Ostrich Cup 1590

John Spilman's "Ostrich Cup" is a striking example of Renaissance-era silverwork. The cup, crafted in 1590, is made from an ostrich egg and adorned with elaborate silver mounts. The cup's form, with its ornate lid and intricate details, exemplifies the style of the period. The use of ostrich eggs as a material was not only aesthetically pleasing but also served as a symbol of wealth and exoticism, reflecting the global reach of European trade and the growing interest in natural wonders during the Renaissance. The "Ostrich Cup" is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago and continues to fascinate viewers with its delicate craftsmanship and rich historical context.