Covered Cup 1757 - 1758

This covered cup was fashioned from gold by Richard Gurney in the 18th century. Its shimmering surface draws your eye in, immediately communicating a sense of luxury and opulence. Look at the cup's ornate details; the undulating patterns on the body and lid create a sense of movement and dynamism. The symmetrical handles and supporting figure, with their delicate, swirling forms, add to the cup's intricate design. This emphasis on ornamentation invites one to consider the values of the period and the status conveyed through such objects. The cup acts as a signifier of wealth and power. Its function is almost secondary to its visual statement. This piece challenges fixed meanings about utility, pushing us to consider how everyday objects can become powerful cultural symbols. It's a beautiful example of how form, material, and symbolism can intersect to create a statement beyond simple aesthetics.