Beaker (Ranftbecher) 1815 - 1825

This clear-glass beaker was created by Anton Kothgasser in the early 19th century. Notice the tumbler's flared form, with its solid, faceted base giving way to smoothly curving walls. The glass itself presents a tactile invitation, its transparency promising coolness. Three panels decorate its surface, each framing a different figure evocative of Commedia dell'Arte. These figures with their dynamic poses and elaborate costumes, are rendered with precision. Look closely at the lines; they are sharp and decisive, creating depth and capturing a sense of theater and performance. The scenes, reminiscent of playing cards, might symbolize the human comedy, where characters play roles. The piece challenges the separation between representation and reality, questioning the nature of identity. Consider how the transparency of the glass and the etched figures interact with the beaker's function as a vessel for consumption. This blurring of boundaries encapsulates the spirit of the era, where playful deconstruction of social roles was reflected in its art.