Flip glass 1765 - 1780

Editor: Here we have an eighteenth-century "Flip Glass," created between 1765 and 1780 by an anonymous artist. It’s currently housed here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. What strikes me is its simple elegance; yet the closer I look, the more ornate it becomes. What do you see in this piece, especially considering its context? Curator: This glass is fascinating because it speaks to cultural rituals surrounding communal drinking. The flip, a type of mixed alcoholic beverage popular during that era, suggests conviviality, celebration, and perhaps even a shared sense of identity. What kind of imagery do you see etched into the glass? Editor: There appear to be some floral patterns near the rim... maybe even birds? Curator: Exactly. The use of floral and avian motifs carries layers of symbolism. Flowers can represent beauty, fleeting moments, or even fertility. Birds often signify freedom, communication, or even spiritual ascension. Their inclusion elevates the glass from a mere utilitarian object to a vessel imbued with meaning, don't you think? Consider how these symbols would resonate with the drinker. Editor: I see what you mean! It's like each sip becomes a small, shared cultural experience. That changes how I look at such a common, seemingly ordinary object. Curator: Indeed! By understanding the symbols etched into everyday items like this, we gain a richer understanding of the cultural memory and shared beliefs of the past. What starts as an anonymous glass can illuminate the values held by those who used it. Editor: I’ll definitely be thinking about what symbols hide in plain sight from now on! Thanks!