Dram Cup 1690 - 1700

This small silver "dram cup," created by Dutch silversmith Jacob Boelen between 1690 and 1700, is a fine example of 17th-century Dutch craftsmanship. The cup, with its hammered surface and twisted handles, is an exquisite example of the silversmith's artistry. This diminutive vessel, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, would have been used for serving small portions of alcoholic beverages. The intricate details and elegant form highlight the skill of Dutch silversmiths in creating both functional and beautiful objects.