Glass ewer with enameled ibex and unicorn, 16th century
Decolourized, slightly smoky glass, blown, enameled (green, yellow, white) and gilt, handle cold painted
(H x W x D)32,7 × 13 × 16 cm
About the workIn the Middle Ages, the ibex, which was already almost extinct due to hunting, was said to have miraculous properties. One of these was that its horns, used as drinking vessels, were supposed to detect poison, just like those of the unicorn. Perhaps the depictions on this ewer reflected the wish that it would not contain poison. The jug attests to the competition between Catalan glass art and that of Venice. In both locations, the technique of enamel painting on glass was a challenge. To seal the colours, the jug was heated a second time until the glass softened.
AccessionOn permanent loan of the LVR LandesMuseum Bonn, since 1986
Inventory numberLP 1986-10
