The Lacock Cup: A Testament to Medieval Silver Craftsmanship

The Lacock Cup, a sterling example of late medieval silverware, has stood the test of time, providing a unique lens through which we can view the secular and sacred practices of 15th-century England. This parcel-gilt standing cup features a hemispherical bowl and a conical cover, topped with a ball finial, showcasing the exquisite Gothic foliage and corded ribs encircling its base. Originally crafted around 1450, possibly for secular feasting, the cup’s role evolved post-Reformation into a communion vessel for St Cyriac’s Church in Lacock, Wiltshire.

Artistic and Design Perspectives

From a design standpoint, the Lacock Cup exemplifies the application of balance and proportion. The transition of its shape from a hemispherical bowl to a trumpet-shaped foot and tapered lid appeals aesthetically and balances the visual weight, grounding the piece physically and stylistically. The gilt cresting enhances the emphasis, drawing attention to the detailed craftsmanship typical of the period.

The transition from Secular to Sacred

The cup’s transformation from a secular drinking vessel to a sacred chalice encapsulates a significant cultural shift during the English Reformation when religious practices demanded simplicity devoid of extensive ornamentation. This shift underscores the versatility and adaptability of design elements to meet evolving cultural and religious needs.

Modern-Day Relevance and Preservation

The sale of the Lacock Cup to the British Museum in 2013 for £1.3 million, supported by the National Heritage Memorial Fund and private donations, highlights the contemporary appreciation and valuation of historical artifacts. This acquisition ensures that the cup can be preserved under optimal conditions while still honouring its historical usage by producing replicas for St Cyriac’s Church and Wiltshire Museum.

Sources

Newman, H. (2000). An Illustrated Dictionary of Silverware: 2,373 Entries Relating to British and North American Wares, Decorative Techniques and Styles, and Leading Designers and Makers, Principally from C.1500 to the Present. United Kingdom: Thames & Hudson.

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