About this artwork
This wine cistern was crafted in the 18th century by Paul de Lamerie, a silversmith of Huguenot descent. Consider for a moment the historical backdrop: Lamerie, as a member of the French Protestant community, had to flee religious persecution and establish himself in London. His resulting success speaks volumes about the cultural exchange and the integration of immigrant artisans into British society. The cistern itself, made of gleaming silver, is more than a functional object; its elaborate ornamentation broadcasts wealth, status, and a cultivated taste. The design harks back to classical forms and motifs, aligning the owner with a lineage of power and intellectualism. It offers a glimpse into the rituals of elite social life. What emotions or ideals were being stirred as wine was served from it? Is it a symbol of celebration, luxury, or perhaps even excess? This piece invites us to reflect on how objects embody our values and aspirations, telling silent stories of those who commissioned, created, and used them.
Wine cistern
1719 - 1720
Artwork details
- Medium
- silver, metal, sculpture
- Dimensions
- 18 x 38 x 25 in. (45.72 x 96.52 x 63.5 cm)
- Location
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Copyright
- Public Domain
Tags
Comments
During large banquets and parties, cisterns were used to chill wine bottles in cool water. This cistern was made for John Leveson-Gower, the First Earl Gower, and remained in the family until acquired by the Institute in 1961. The superbly proportioned vessel is given power and individuality by two eccentrically-shaped handles bearing animals' masks on the upper volutes. Bold, faun-like masks spring from the body to support the vigorous leaf rim. Moulded panels on a ground of Régence-style scales enclose grotesque marks, and scrolls and shells are chased on the base. The sum of the parts demonstrates Paul de Lamerie's ability to produce, even in the early years of his career, a massive piece of highest quality.
About this artwork
This wine cistern was crafted in the 18th century by Paul de Lamerie, a silversmith of Huguenot descent. Consider for a moment the historical backdrop: Lamerie, as a member of the French Protestant community, had to flee religious persecution and establish himself in London. His resulting success speaks volumes about the cultural exchange and the integration of immigrant artisans into British society. The cistern itself, made of gleaming silver, is more than a functional object; its elaborate ornamentation broadcasts wealth, status, and a cultivated taste. The design harks back to classical forms and motifs, aligning the owner with a lineage of power and intellectualism. It offers a glimpse into the rituals of elite social life. What emotions or ideals were being stirred as wine was served from it? Is it a symbol of celebration, luxury, or perhaps even excess? This piece invites us to reflect on how objects embody our values and aspirations, telling silent stories of those who commissioned, created, and used them.
Comments
During large banquets and parties, cisterns were used to chill wine bottles in cool water. This cistern was made for John Leveson-Gower, the First Earl Gower, and remained in the family until acquired by the Institute in 1961. The superbly proportioned vessel is given power and individuality by two eccentrically-shaped handles bearing animals' masks on the upper volutes. Bold, faun-like masks spring from the body to support the vigorous leaf rim. Moulded panels on a ground of Régence-style scales enclose grotesque marks, and scrolls and shells are chased on the base. The sum of the parts demonstrates Paul de Lamerie's ability to produce, even in the early years of his career, a massive piece of highest quality.