Tantalus as Joke Vessel
ca. 1580/90 | Christoph Gandtner
The colourful ceramic objects of the South Tyrolean master potter Christoph Gandtner, whose works also interested Emperor Rudolph II, appear to be small functionless sculptures but could be used as drinking vessels. For that purpose, either the head was removed or the figure turned over. The associated difficulty in drinking, like the interpretation of the subjects represented, provided entertainment at court festivities.
The colourful ceramic objects of the South Tyrolean master potter Christoph Gandtner, whose works also interested Emperor Rudolph II, appear to be small functionless sculptures but could be used as drinking vessels. For that purpose, either the head was removed or the figure turned over. The associated difficulty in drinking, like the interpretation of the subjects represented, provided entertainment at court festivities.
Artist:
Christoph Gandtner (gest. 1605 Meran) DNB
Time:
ca. 1580/90
Object Name
Joke Vessel; Statuette
Culture
Innsbruck
Material/technology:
Tin-glazed earthenware
Dimensions:
H. 26,6 cm, L. 17 cm, B. 18 cm
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Kunstkammer, 3155