Beaker 1726 - 1736

This beaker was made in Germany by Ludolf Lüders, sometime between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. It is crafted from silver, a material valued not just for its luster, but also its malleability. The body of the beaker was likely raised from a single sheet of silver, using hammers and stakes to gradually coax the metal into its curved form. After this the foot would have been soldered onto the base. The surface is decorated with intricate engraving, a process that requires a steady hand and specialized tools to cut delicate lines into the metal. Silver objects like this were often commissioned by wealthy individuals or families as symbols of status and refinement, reflecting their ability to afford luxury goods. The high level of skill and labor that went into creating this beaker speaks to the rich tradition of silversmithing in Germany at the time. It blurs the lines between functional object, status symbol, and artwork.