Tankard 1700 - 1735

This tankard was crafted in the early 18th century by Christoffer Mansfeld II. Imagine it as a symbol of the era’s complex dance between luxury and labor. Tankards like these were more than drinking vessels; they reflected the owner's status in a society deeply stratified by class. This piece, with its ornate detailing and precious material, speaks volumes about wealth and power. Yet, behind its shimmering surface lies the labor of countless artisans, often working in harsh conditions, whose stories are usually erased from historical narratives. Consider the emotional weight of owning such an object—the pride, the display of affluence—juxtaposed against the realities of its production. It invites us to reflect on the connections between consumerism, craftsmanship, and the human cost of luxury.