Beaker vase (one of a pair) 1665 - 1685

This silver beaker vase was crafted in England in the late 17th or early 18th century by Thomas Jenkins. Observe the prominent use of botanical motifs such as leaves, garlands, and ribbons. These elements are not merely decorative. Since antiquity, garlands and foliage have been potent symbols of celebration and abundance, often linked to fertility rites. Consider the recurring image of the cornucopia, overflowing with nature's bounty. These festoons and ribbons, adorning the vase, echo similar motifs found on Roman altars and Renaissance paintings, celebrating the cyclical rhythm of nature. It’s intriguing to consider how deeply these images resonate within our collective psyche. The garland motif, in particular, has resurfaced through history, acquiring new layers of meaning. Yet, at its core, it retains its primal association with life, growth, and the perennial promise of renewal.