Tankard 1690

This tankard was made in Augsburg, Germany, by Johann Schwarz in the 17th century, most likely from silver. The material itself is of course valuable, and the silversmith would have had to be highly skilled to work it. Note the careful shaping of the vessel, the hinged lid, and handle; but above all, the attached medallions. These have crisp figural details and lettering, all achieved in miniature. Consider the social context of this object, and the amount of work involved in its production. Not only would Schwarz have commanded a high price for such a luxury item, but the owner would have enjoyed drinking from a vessel that declared their status. Every sip from this tankard would have been a reminder of the owner's place in the world, reinforced by the artistry on display. Objects like this invite us to reflect on the relationship between craft, consumption, and social identity, reminding us that even everyday items can carry profound cultural significance.