Bellermine (Bartmannskrug)
ca. 1625
            
                Silver and parcel-gilt. 
              25.8 cm (height)
              Thyssen-Bornemisza Collections, on deposit at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
              
                Inv. no.   (
              DEC1168
)
              Originally from Nathaniel von Rothschild’s collection in Vienna, this piece was acquired by Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza as an addition to his collection of German Baroque precious metalwork. The jug, whose handle is decorated with a putto, reproduces a type of Rhenish ceramicware that was widespread in the first half of the 16th century. It bears two marks, one of the Gelb family of goldsmiths linked to the city of Augsburg. Melchior Gelb specialised in pieces where the colour of silver is combined with gold plating to enhance their aesthetic appearance. This particular jug is decorated with vine leaves and bunches of grapes on the base and lid in allusion to one of the most popular beverages of all times: wine.
 
                       
                       
                       
                      