Sherry krug c. 1900

Koloman Moser created this Sherry Krug, or Sherry Jug, out of glass and metal at an unknown date. Moser was a leading figure in the Vienna Secession, a movement that challenged the conservative artistic establishment in Austria at the turn of the 20th century. The Secession sought to break down the barriers between fine and applied arts, advocating for the integration of art into everyday life. This jug embodies that ethos, transforming a functional object into a work of aesthetic beauty. Its elegant form and delicate glasswork reflect the Secession's embrace of modern design principles and a rejection of historicism. Consider how the jug’s creation and display within institutions like this one contribute to its meaning. Art historical research, including the study of Secession manifestos and design publications, can shed light on the social and cultural context that shaped this object. Ultimately, the Sherry Jug invites us to reflect on the role of art in shaping our everyday lives and challenging existing social norms.