Artwork Page for Design for a Ewer

Details / Information for Design for a Ewer

Series Title: Designs for Bowls, Goblets, and Other Vessels

Design for a Ewer

1530–62

Virgil Solis

(German, 1514–1562)
Culture
Germany
Medium
etching and engraving
Measurements
Sheet: 26.5 x 13.9 cm (10 7/16 x 5 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Delia E. Holden Fund 1961.315
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

The decoration and function of this ewer, or jug, relates to wine. The satyr on the front of the vessel, satyr heads at the handle and mouth, and birds and crayfish on the side are mythological or natural creatures associated with Bacchus and his revelries. The shape is derived from a Greek wine jug called an oinochoe. Made by Virgil Solis, who ran a busy printmaking workshop in Nuremberg, Germany, the print was a model for artists working in other media, such as silver.
A vertically oriented etching in black ink depicts an ornate ewer. The curved handle is crowned by a winged figure, while bearded masks adorn the spout and sides. The vessel's body features two birds with spread wings flanking scrolling vines and a small lobster. Below, a narrow stem with grotesque faces flares into a tiered circular base. A monogram is visible on the left against the plain background.

Design for a Ewer

1530–62

Virgil Solis

(German, 1514–1562)
Germany

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