Kraan van koper waarvan het handvat is samengesteld uit drie 'ringen' c. 1590 - 1596

Editor: We're looking at a brass faucet made around 1590 to 1596. The handle is made of three rings, almost like a stylized clover. I find the craftsmanship quite beautiful for such a functional object. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: What I find interesting is how objects like this, seemingly mundane, offer a glimpse into the daily life and social structures of the time. This isn't just a faucet; it's a symbol of access, control, and even status. Who had access to water, and where? Was this in a private home or a public space? Editor: That's a good point! It hadn’t occurred to me to think about the implications of water access in that era. How would its location change its interpretation? Curator: If it were in a wealthy household, it might represent luxury and control over resources. In a public bathhouse, it speaks to communal life and hygiene practices, which were deeply intertwined with social hierarchies and religious beliefs. Notice also how decorative it is – it’s meant to be seen and admired, not just used. Do you think this decoration changes our understanding of water in the Renaissance? Editor: I think it does. Seeing something functional elevated through artistry challenges our assumptions about utility versus art. Perhaps everyday objects were more deeply valued for their aesthetic contribution. Curator: Precisely. The Rijksmuseum placing it on display today alters its purpose once more; now an artifact, an example of Renaissance metalwork. How a museum contextualizes this type of object frames its historical value and continues the evolution of its reception. Editor: It's amazing to consider how many stories can be drawn from just a single faucet! I'll definitely think about these societal layers when viewing decorative art in the future. Curator: And I will contemplate how presenting everyday items can challenge the conventional narrative of Art History itself.