Hans Karl
Goblet and Cover (Pokal)
Early 17th century
Physical Qualities
Amber, gold, and enamel, Overall: 9 1/4 × 3 3/16 in. (23.5 × 8.1 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Melvin Gutman
Object Number
1964.13.1
Commissioned for Bohemian Emperor Rudolf II, this exceptional 'pokal' or goblet is made of amber, a hardened natural resin, considered one of man's earliest prized decorative materials, preceding even gold and silver. A ceremonial vessel, it was intended for serving communion wine. The gilt bands at the base and lip of the goblet, as well as on the accompanying lid, are decorated with extremely fine, polychrome enamel symbols representing good (butterflies and birds) and evil (dragons and satyrs). The pokal retains its original leather case.
Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1964; Melvin Gutman, New York, NY
"Rudolf II and Prague: The Imperial Court and Residential City as the Cultural and Spiritual Heart of Central Europe", May 30-September 7, 1997, Prague, Czech Republic
Havel, Vaclav, and Eliska Fucikova. Rudolf II and Prague: The Court and the City. New York: Thames and Hudson, 1997, p. 505
Philippovich 1966, p. 106, ill. 68
On View: Jacobs, Gallery 6
