Tankard 1720 - 1721

This silver tankard was crafted by Thomas Mason in the 18th century. Note the engraved heraldic symbols of a horse and rabbit that adorn its surface, emblems of familial identity and aspiration. These motifs, seemingly simple, evoke a deeper cultural memory. The horse, a symbol of nobility and power, can be traced back through centuries, from the steeds of ancient Greek heroes to the chargers of medieval knights. In contrast, the rabbit, often a symbol of fertility and vulnerability, reminds us of life's precariousness. Consider how these images, passed down through generations, are not merely decorative but act as vehicles of cultural transmission. The emotional resonance of these symbols—the pride associated with the horse, the empathy evoked by the rabbit—engages viewers on a subconscious level. They resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.