Dish

Unknown Artist

early 16th century

Dish by Unknown Artist

Medium

Brass

Dimensions

Overall: 16 1/8 x 1 3/4 in. (41 x 4.5 cm)

Classification

Metalwork-Brass

Culture

German

Department

Medieval Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Gift of W. L. Hildburgh, 1932

Accession Number

32.64.31

Tags

Grapes

Art Historical Context

This elegant brass dish, crafted by an unknown German artist in the 16th century, the fine metalwork traditions of the late medieval and early Renaissance periods. Measuring 16 1/8 x 1 3/4 inches (41 x 4.5 cm), it was likely designed for both practical use—such as serving food—and decorative display in affluent households. The choice of brass, a durable and malleable alloy of copper and zinc, allowed artisans to create intricate designs through techniques like engraving or repoussé, showcasing their skill in transforming everyday objects into art. A key feature is its decoration centered on g...

    Send Feedback

    We use this only to reply to your feedback.