Jug with Minerva and ribbed neck c. 1550 - 1599

This stoneware jug, created by Baldem Mennicken around 1550-1599, features an oval medallion depicting Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and warfare, surrounded by decorative floral motifs. Its ribbed neck and bulbous body contribute to its distinctive aesthetic. The piece exemplifies the artistry of German stoneware production, reflecting the skillful application of relief decoration and the use of salt glazing, giving the jug its characteristic brown hue. The inclusion of a classical figure like Minerva suggests a broader cultural influence on the artwork.