Drie versierde drinkbekers before 1876

Here we see three ornate drinking cups rendered by Anselm Schmitz. Though the date of creation is unknown, Schmitz was active in the late 19th century. Note the prevalence of fruit motifs, particularly grapes, adorning these vessels. In Western art, grapes have long been associated with abundance, fertility, and, most significantly, with the wine of the Eucharist, symbolizing the blood of Christ. This imbues the cups with a sacred dimension, hinting at rituals of communion and spiritual nourishment. Consider how the grape motif recurs throughout art history, from ancient Roman depictions of Bacchus, the god of wine, to Renaissance paintings of celebratory feasts. The symbol evolves, yet its core association with pleasure, sacrifice, and transformation persists. These objects resonate on a primal, subconscious level. The act of drinking from these cups becomes more than mere sustenance; it becomes a symbolic participation in a ritual as old as civilization itself.