18th Century

18th Century

Tankard with Clash of Knights

Carved ivory with silver mounts; height 12 cm

This 19th-century tankard is a refined example of European artistic craftsmanship, featuring a central ivory body finely carved in high relief (altorilievo) depicting a dynamic scene of clashing knights. The ivory drum is framed by elegant silver mounts, including a molded upper rim, a domed base decorated with gadrooning (baccellatura) resting on small spherical ball feet, and a handle finely chased with volutes and phytomorphic (plant-like) decorations.

The object fits perfectly within the prestigious tradition of ivory and precious metal tankards—a type of artifact that reached its zenith in the princely courts of Germany and Central Europe during the Baroque period (17th–18th centuries). These objects, known as Humpen, were not intended for daily use but were conceived as showpieces for Wunderkammern (cabinets of curiosities), where they served to flaunt the wealth, taste, and power of the owner.

During the 19th century, the Historicist taste brought these forms back into fashion. Carvers reinterpreted classical themes of hunting, ancient myths, and historical battles with an almost virtuoso attention to anatomical detail and perspective depth. This made such works highly sought-after collector's items, prized for their material preciousness and the technical complexity of the carving.

Italy only: with Ars Antiqua it is possible to defer all amounts up to a maximum € 7,500 at ZERO RATE, for a total of 15 INSTALLMENTS.

Unpardoned. Vault. € 4,500 = Monthly instalment € 300 for 15 months.

Unpardoned. Vault. € 3,600 = Monthly instalment € 720 for 5 months.

For amounts greater than €7,500 or for a longer period of time (over 15 installments), we can provide a personalized payment.

Contact us directly to get the best quote.

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All the works proposed by Ars Antiqua are sold accompanied by a certificate of authenticity in accordance with the law and an accurate in-depth sheet.

It is possible to see the works directly at the showroom gallery in Milan, in via Pisacane 55 and 57.

We personally organize transport and deliveries of the works, both for Italy and abroad.