Pokal with cover

Art Historical Context

This elegant *Pokal with cover* by Johann Sigismund M, crafted in late 18th-centuryilesia (Warmbr), exemplifies the refined glassmaking traditions of German decorative arts. Standing at 1/2 inches tall with its lid, this covered chalice—known as a *pokal*—served as a ceremonial drinking vessel, often used in festive or commemorative settings. Its graceful proportions (9 1/2 × 3 3/8 in.) highlight the precision of Silesian glass artisans, who were renowned for producing luxurious tableware during the Enlightenment era. Menzel's work features intricate engravings of profiles and trophies, as suggested by its motifs, blending portraiture with symbolic emblems of victory or achievement. Glass engraving, a demanding technique involving diamond-point or wheel-cut designs on clear or colored glass, allowed for delicate, luminous details that caught the light in opulent interiors. This piece reflects the cultural prestige of Warmbrunn glassworks, a hub of innovation in Central Europe. Acquired through the Munsey Fund in 1927 and housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department, the *Pokal* offers a glimpse into 18th-century craftsmanship, where everyday objects became canvases for artistry and status. Visitors will appreciate its timeless sparkle and historical charm.

About the Artist

Johann Sigismund Menzel · 1744–1810

1744–1810