Goblet with cover

Reinier van Jaersvelt

1546 - 1547

verguld zilver, glas, parels

Rijksmuseum

A gilded silver and glass goblet with a cover, topped with a gilded animal figurine. The goblet features intricate relief decoration on its base and lid. The production of clear glass was introduced in Antwerp in the 16th century by Venetian glassblowers. This luxury goblet illustrates the high level of craftsmanship in Netherlandish cities. Seated atop the gilded silvercover is a wild boar, with a unicorn emerging on the underside. With the other figures, these animals symbolize faith, loyalty and purity.