Goblet 1690 - 1720

Gottfried von Spiller created this goblet, around the late 17th or early 18th century. The clear glass, shaped with meticulous detail, suggests a focus on form and structure, typical of formalist approaches to art. The goblet’s design is based on a series of geometric shapes, including the circular base, bulbous stem, and conical cup. These elements stack upon one another in a balanced, almost architectural manner. Intricate, symmetrical patterns, like the diamond band around the rim and the radial leaf design on the foot, further enhance the object's structured appearance. However, the etched figurative scenes that wrap around the cup introduce a layer of complexity. The goblet’s clear materiality speaks to a broader interest in transparency. It also raises questions about the interplay between utility and aesthetics. Does its artistic value overshadow its practical function? This goblet presents us with a refined intersection of design and concept.