Schenkkan met twee nimfen 1628 - 1732

This print shows a design for a ewer, or water jug, made anonymously. The object's ornateness displays cultural values of its time. Likely made in the Dutch Republic, the ewer is extravagant and classically inspired, featuring mythological figures and complex ornamentation. We can ask, what are the social conditions that might cause an object like this to be created? The Dutch Republic was a major economic power in the 17th century. This ewer is an example of the kinds of luxury goods that became fashionable among the wealthy merchant class. Its likely function was as a showpiece in a wealthy home, communicating the owner's sophistication. As historians, we can look at household inventories and trade records, finding out more about how the wealthy of the Dutch Republic consumed goods like these. We consider art and design as a product of social institutions, reflecting society's economic and cultural values.