Standing cup 17th century

This standing cup was made by Lorenz Zick in the 17th century out of ivory. Now, ivory is a fascinating material. It is dense, durable, and uniform, perfect for intricate carving. The material lends itself to the creation of objects like this one, which are both functional and ornate. Consider the skill needed to produce something like this! Ivory carving involves a slow process of removing material to reveal the final form. The use of specialized tools and techniques speaks to a rich tradition of craftsmanship. The cup's twisting form, with its many decorative details, would have required hundreds of hours of dedicated labor. Think, too, about the social context. Ivory objects were luxury goods, symbols of status and wealth. This cup would have been owned by someone of considerable means, someone who wanted to show off not only their wealth but also their appreciation for virtuoso craftsmanship. Objects like this encourage us to reconsider the perceived divide between art and craft.