Palm Cup

Art Historical Context

This delicate **Palm Cup**, crafted by an unknown Frankish artisan in the 7th–8th century, exemplifies the glassmaking traditions of early medieval Europe. Measuring just 2¾ x 4⅜ inches (7 x 11.3 cm), this small vessel belongs to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval Art collection, generously gifted by J. Pier Morgan in 1917. Its modest size belies its status as a luxury item, likely used for drinking or as a table accessory among the elite of the Frankish kingdoms, which spanned modern-day France, Germany, and beyond during the Merovingian and early Carolingian periods. Glass vessels li...