- Ewer
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Ewer
- Place of origin:
Venice (city) (made)
- Date:
early 16th century (made)
- Artist/Maker:
Unknown
- Materials and Techniques:
Brass, engraved and formerly inlaid with silver
- Credit Line:
Given by Dr W L Hildburgh, FSA
- Museum number:
M.43-1946
- Gallery location:
In store
Ewers supported on a pedestal foot began to appear about 1500 and the decoration on this ewer is typical of the brass work made in Venice in the period 1500-1550. The decorative techniques and motifs were influenced by the objects Venetian merchants brought back to the city when trading with the Arab and Turkish empires that bordered the Mediterranean.
Venetian brass work was almost always engraved and often inlaid with silver wire (now missing on this example). The decoration was extensive, often covering the whole surface of the object. It featured the arabesque pattern that was based on a stylised plant with a winding stem. Here the maker has combined the Islamic arabesque with coats of arms, which suggests that the patron might have been a wealthy aristocrat.
