Turban snail shell cup, c. 1560
Turban snail shell, turquoise, rubies or garnets, glass stones, gold lacquer, silver-gilt mountsexpand_more
Gift of funds from Mary Agnes and Al McQuinnexpand_more 2018.60
On View in Gallery 310expand_more
This is truly a global production. The turban snail, which is native to the Indo-Pacific Ocean, was probably harvested by local fishermen. Craftsmen in Goa or Gujarat polished the shell and decorated it with clusters of rare stones framed by gilt lacquer. It was then exported to Europe as a luxury ware, where a German or Flemish goldsmith embellished it with silver-gilt elements—snails and claws for the shell’s feet, lizards and acanthus leaves contouring the projecting turban, and a rim for the vessel with a Latin inscription. It quotes the Gospel of Matthew with the words Peter spoke to Jesus, “Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee.”
Details
- Title
- Turban snail shell cup
- Role
- Silversmith
- Accession Number
- 2018.60
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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