Lot Essay
The form of the present tankard is typical of those made in Hamburg during this period, and is similar to the Hansekanne, which was a tall drinking or serving vessel popular throughout the Hanseatic states in the early 17th century. Russia was an important trading partner for Hamburg merchants at this time, and the Kremlin is home to one of the largest collections of Hamburg silver in the world today, which may explain the early 19th century Russian inscription seen here.
Julius Tischer trained under Gregorius Lambrecht, one of the most successful 17th century silversmiths in Hamburg, before becoming a master in 1659. His most important surviving work is the welcome cup of the Hamburg brewers' guild, which stands 29 1⁄8 in. high.
Julius Tischer trained under Gregorius Lambrecht, one of the most successful 17th century silversmiths in Hamburg, before becoming a master in 1659. His most important surviving work is the welcome cup of the Hamburg brewers' guild, which stands 29 1⁄8 in. high.