Kelkglas met een waterspuwende dolfijn geflankeerd door een putto en een meerman c. 1775

Editor: Here we have a beautiful "Kelkglas met een waterspuwende dolfijn geflankeerd door een putto en een meerman", or Chalice Glass with a dolphin spouting water flanked by a putto and a merman. It’s from around 1775. What’s striking is how intricate the figuration is, despite being on such a delicate piece of glass. What do you see in this piece, from your perspective? Curator: The glass reveals a great deal about 18th-century social and cultural values. The prominent display of mythical figures—a dolphin, putto, and merman—suggests a culture fascinated by classical mythology, common for the wealthy during the Baroque era. Editor: Interesting! So, it’s about showing off knowledge and taste? Curator: Partly, yes. Think about the setting where such a glass would be used. Displaying wealth and cultural refinement was central to maintaining social status. It highlights the role art and luxury items play in establishing social hierarchy. The imagery served as conversation starters. Who in this circle would have been most eager to own it and put it on display, and why? Editor: Probably someone climbing the social ladder? New money, wanting to be accepted by the established elite? Curator: Precisely. They understand the need for outward symbols of prestige. Editor: It is funny to think of the humble drinking glass carrying so much weight. I definitely look at it differently now. Curator: Art always reflects the context of its creation and reception.