Tinnen kruik met deksel c. 1680s - 1690s

This is a pewter jug with a lid, made by Wilhelmus van Heijningen, probably in the Netherlands, around the late 17th or early 18th century. Its elegant form is typical of Dutch metalwork from this period. Looking at this object, it’s easy to think about the everyday lives of people in the Dutch Golden Age. Pewter was a common material for household objects, prized for its durability and affordability compared to silver or gold. Artisans like Van Heijningen played a vital role in the economic and social life of the time, creating objects that reflected Dutch prosperity and trade networks. The jug's design blends practicality with aesthetic refinement, fitting into a culture that valued both. Studying objects like these involves a dive into historical records, guild archives, and trade documents. This helps us to understand not just the artistry but the social and economic forces that shaped its creation and use.