Urceus 1563

Johannes and Lucas van Doetechum made this engraving of an 'Urceus' or ewer. Imagine the world in which the Urceus was an object of both beauty and utility. During the time this print was made, the Dutch Republic was flourishing through global trade, and with that came the rise of mercantile elites who desired to showcase their wealth and taste. The intricate details of the Urceus, from the grotesque mask on the spout to the ornate handle, reflect a society that valued both craftsmanship and the pleasures of life. Wine ewers such as this one, were not just functional items; they were symbols of status, virility, and conviviality. In a culture where social gatherings and displays of hospitality were important, owning a decorative Urceus was a way to signal one’s place in the world. This ewer speaks to the complex interplay between daily life, social identity, and artistic expression in the Dutch Golden Age.