Goblet c. 1675 - 1685

This delicate goblet resides in the Rijksmuseum, crafted anonymously with glass. The form is striking, observe how the vertical axis rises from a circular base, through a bulbous stem, and culminates in a conical bowl. The material lends a transparent quality, allowing light to play across its surface. The engraved flourishes provide further visual interest to this piece. These linear patterns, seemingly abstract at first glance, introduce a layer of complexity, disrupting the goblet’s otherwise pristine form. The artist uses these graphic elements to challenge the notions of functionality by introducing ornamental flourishes. Consider how this piece operates within a larger semiotic system. The goblet form itself evokes notions of ritual and celebration. The formal qualities of the goblet challenge the expectations of a purely functional object, inviting us to contemplate the fusion of utility and artistry.