Aquamanile (Ram-shaped Ewer) c. 13th century

This ram-shaped ewer, made by an anonymous artist, is currently held at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Imagine this aquamanile, or water vessel, being used in a medieval ritual. The choice of a ram is hardly accidental, evoking ideas of sacrifice, strength, and virility, which were likely part of the symbolic language of its time. This object transcends simple utility. It's about performance, as the user would embody certain gendered, class, and social roles. The vessel’s ultramarine color is also significant. The pigment announces that the patron had access to rare materials, likely signaling elite status. While the maker is unknown, we can contemplate how their personal identity might have intersected with prevailing cultural expectations.