Gold Ruby Goblet

Gottfried Spiller

c. 1685 - c. 1690

goudrobijnglas

Rijksmuseum

A ruby red glass goblet with ornate carvings sits on a plain background. The goblet has a wide bowl and a stemmed base, both decorated with intricate patterns. The red colour of this goblet is due to the addition of tiny gold particles to the glass melt. This process was pioneered by the German alchemist Johann Kunckel in the late 17th century, following which gold ruby glass vessels became hugely sought after. Its allure derived from its colour and from the magical qualities associated with gold and ruby. The glass engraver worked the goblet such that it resembled a cut gemstone rather than mere glass.