Tankard Item Number: Cg242 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
White cylindrical earthenware tankard on flat base, loop handle from top to mid body, flat pewter lid hinged to handle top. On body in front is a standing figure in ecclesiastical garments, inscribed "S:Nicolaus". Green and orange floral sprig either side.
Cultural Context
functional; decorative
Specific Techniques
tin-glazed
Iconographic Meaning
The image is of Saint Nicholas as a bishop carrying a crozier. The three coins in his hand refer to him giving money to a father who could not afford dowries for his three daughters. Without dowries, the daughters would remain unmarried. The three naked children in the barrel illustrate a legend of murder and resurrection.
Narrative
Made in either Cologne, or Popplesdorf, Germany.
Item History
- Made in Cologne, Westphalia, Germany ? between 1750 and 1800
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before December 2, 1988
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) on December 2, 1988
What
Who
- Culture
- German
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Cologne, Westphalia, Germany ?
When
- Creation Date
- between 1750 and 1800
- Ownership Date
- before December 2, 1988
- Acquisition Date
- on December 2, 1988
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics; earthenware; tin-glaze
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 1417/0294