Puzzle tankard (Vexierkrug)

ca. 1563

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 520

The piece protruding from the handle of this tankard is not merely a design element: it is hollow, as is part of the handle, and together they form a straw. Inventive vessels like these were used in drinking games where participants unfamiliar with the tankard’s secret would be challenged to drain their cup without allowing their lips to touch its rim. The presence of two shields on the lid indicates that this tankard may have been a wedding gift.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Puzzle tankard (Vexierkrug)
Date: ca. 1563
Culture: German, Regensburg
Medium: Gilded, engraved, and enameled silver
Dimensions: Height: 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
Classification: Metalwork-Silver
Credit Line: The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973
Object Number: 1974.356.762
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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