Low jug
17th century
Medium
Faience (tin-glazed earthenware)
Dimensions
H. 5-1/2 in. (14.0 cm)
Classification
Ceramics-Pottery
Culture
German, Frankfurt
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of the family of Siegfried and Lola Kramarsky, in their memory, 1991
Accession Number
1991.207.4
Tags
Art Historical Context
This charming low jug, crafted in 17th-century Frankfurt by Abraham Helmhack (also associated with Feulner), exemplifies the vibrant faience tradition of German pottery. Standing just 5-1/2 inches tall, this tin-glazed earthenware piece was produced in a city renowned for its ceramics workshops, which rivaled Dutch and Italian centers by imitating luxurious Chinese porcelain. The tin glaze created a smooth, white canvas ideal for vibrant painted decorations, fired at lower temperatures than true porcelain, making it an accessible yet elegant household item. Likely adorned with scenes of Chris...
About the Artist
Feulner|Abraham Helmhack (German| ) · 1650 |1654 –1750 |1724
German|1654–1724