Spout Cup 1709 - 1719

Here we see a Spout Cup, crafted in an indeterminate year by Jacob Boelen. Its hammered silver surface invites us to consider not just its utility, but its construction. The cup’s form disrupts traditional expectations of symmetry and perfection. Notice the way the light plays across the uneven surface, creating a dynamic interplay of highlights and shadows. The spout, handle, and lid are not seamlessly integrated; instead, they appear as distinct elements attached to the body. This formal choice emphasizes the object’s materiality. Boelen presents us with a functional object, yet compels us to see it as a constructed artifact. The Spout Cup sits at the intersection of utility and artistry. It challenges us to reconsider the relationship between form and function, suggesting that an object’s value lies not just in its purpose, but also in its ability to provoke thought and reflection.