Goblet 1720 - 1730

This goblet was made in the 18th century by Frans Greenwood, using glass and diamond-point engraving. The glass is formed into a classic shape, but it is the surface that truly catches the eye. Notice how the engraving transforms the smooth surface into a delicate canvas. The process involves using a tool with a diamond point to scratch the surface of the glass, creating a design made up of countless tiny lines. The image, of a reclining female figure, is rendered with remarkable detail, all the more impressive given the difficulty of the medium. Greenwood had to be meticulous, controlling the pressure and angle of his tool to achieve the desired effect. It is this extraordinary skill that elevates the object beyond mere function, demonstrating a mastery of craft. Objects like this remind us that even everyday items can be sites of immense artistry and technical innovation.