Tankard 1733 - 1734

This silver tankard, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was crafted by Richard Gurney in the 18th century. Its gleaming surface and carefully considered design offer a fascinating study in form and function. Notice the tankard's cylindrical body, sharply defined by horizontal bands that structure its visual field. The eye is drawn to the elegantly curved handle, which provides a counterpoint to the straight lines of the body. The domed lid adds a sense of completion, its contours echoing the circularity found throughout the design. But what do these forms communicate? At a basic level, the tankard fulfills its practical purpose with efficient grace. Yet, it also embodies the values of its time: order, restraint, and a subtle opulence. The silver material reflects light, creating a dynamic interplay of highlights and shadows. This gives the object an air of refinement and luxury, indicative of its status as more than just a drinking vessel. Ultimately, this tankard exemplifies how form can elevate function, offering insight into the aesthetic and social values of the past.