Tankard (Fixier-Krug) with hinged cover

Unknown

ca. 1563 · Silver gilt · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1563

Medium

Silver gilt

Culture

German, Regensburg

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973