Covered Goblet with a Knight on the Lid 1500 - 1538

Editor: Here we have Albrecht Altdorfer's "Covered Goblet with a Knight on the Lid," created sometime between 1500 and 1538. It's an engraving, a detailed print capturing the intricate design of what looks like a ceremonial goblet. I'm struck by the almost obsessive level of detail—look at the texture created by the lines! It feels very... proper. What do you make of it? Curator: Proper is one word for it, and it makes me think, how tightly do we hold onto "proper" when, really, isn't "improper" so much more fun? Just a thought! Anyway, I'm captured by the interplay of opulence and restraint here. The knight atop, almost comically stoic, surveys the extravagant seashell-like curves. The piece feels incredibly grounded. Like, it wouldn’t blow over in a breeze. You get a sense of power and status, maybe even a hint of insecurity about maintaining it? Do you feel any of that, seeing it? Editor: I see what you mean! The grounded feeling definitely comes through. So, do you think it's more about displaying power or the beauty of the object itself? Curator: Mmm, tricky question! It's like asking if a peacock struts to woo or purely because it woke up feeling fabulous. A bit of both, surely? Altdorfer uses printmaking, which is usually for dissemination and education, which creates the chance to have wide exposure, unlike a real gold goblet. Think of it as an influencer flaunting wealth, in a pre-Instagram way, to cement prestige! The beauty simply helps persuade people that their claims are credible. I wonder, how might you make the goblet relevant for a modern audience? Editor: Interesting! Thinking about it in modern terms shifts my perspective a lot. I guess it all comes back to the way we communicate status and value, no matter the era. Curator: Exactly! And in art, there's always so much more to learn and share.