Cup from the Mackay Service 1878

Here we see a cup from the Mackay Service, crafted by Tiffany & Co. This piece presents a concentrated study in form and ornamentation, its compact dimensions belying a wealth of visual information. The cup and saucer display a complex interplay of gold with polychrome enamels. Note how the gilded surfaces contrast with the matte textures of the enamel work. The eye is drawn to the rhythmic patterns and their intricate designs. The cup's body features layered motifs, from floral arabesques to geometric borders, each band carefully delineated and colored. The handle, too, warrants attention. Its stylized form echoes naturalistic tendrils, marrying function with decorative flair. It is not merely utilitarian, but serves as a formal bridge between the vessel and its user. The saucer mirrors the cup's complexity. The radiating lobes are punctuated with alternating colors that create a vibrant, pulsating effect. This piece exemplifies the late 19th-century fascination with exoticism and luxury, filtered through an American lens of industrial precision and artisanal skill.