• Width:
  3" (with handle) Inches
• Height:
  4 3/4" Inches
• Period:
  19th Century
• Origin:
  Other Europe

Exceptional detail distinguishes this miniature German ivory tankard. The silver plate vessel is wrapped with resplendent hand-carved ivory in high relief. The tradition of ivory carving in Germany began in the 10th century as trade between Europe and pre-colonial Africa emerged. Ottoman conquests of northern Africa put an end to this trade until the late 15th century when Portuguese explorers once again established trade routes to import this elegant material. The legendary wood carvers of the Odenwald region of Germany adapted their skills to carving ivory, since it is perfectly suited for fine detailing and nearly limitless artistic possibilities. This heritage lasted well through the 19th century, as the quality of this exceptional, diminutive tankard demonstrates.

Circa 1850

3" wide (with handle) x 4 3/4" high