Wijnkan 1927

Carel Begeer, around the turn of the century, likely made this wine jug in the Netherlands using silver and wood. The jug's streamlined form is typical of the Art Deco movement, which embraced industrial materials and simplified aesthetics. The reflective surface of the silver would have been achieved through careful polishing, a labor-intensive process that highlights the inherent qualities of the material. Note how the wooden handle provides a tactile contrast to the smooth, cool metal. The handle's geometric design, with its stepped edges, echoes the jug's overall shape, demonstrating a unified approach to materials and form. Begeer's choice of materials reflects a desire to elevate everyday objects to a level of sophistication and refinement, blurring the lines between functional design and fine art. By carefully considering both the practical and aesthetic qualities of his materials, Begeer created a wine jug that is both beautiful and functional, demonstrating the value of craftsmanship in everyday life.