Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam Acquires Rare 17th-Century Gold Ruby Goblet
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has announced the acquisition of a significant 17th-century gold ruby goblet. This unique piece, an early creation by the pioneering inventor and glassmaker Johann Kunckel, is noted for its spectacular deep red color, a hue achieved by adding gold to the glass formula. This rare object is set to become a new highlight within the museum's extensive collection, scheduled for public display later this year. The acquisition was made possible through the support of the VriendenLoterij, the Ambaum Haks Fonds / Rijksmuseum Fonds, and a private donor.
A New Highlight for Visitors: The Gold Ruby Goblet
This recently acquired goblet represents a masterful example of early glassmaking. Its striking gold ruby hue was particularly challenging to produce, making such pieces highly prized. Beyond its vibrant color, the goblet features intricate engraving attributed to master engraver Gottfried Spiller (1663-1728), known for decorating similar precious glassware. The detailed scene on the shell-shaped bowl depicts cherubs frolicking among grapevines, crafted with such precision that the material appears more like carved stone than blown glass. Such objects were often found in 17th-century "cabinets of curiosities," or Kunstkammer, which were celebrated collections of rare and wondrous items spanning nature, science, and art.
The Legacy of Johann Kunckel, Master Glassmaker
The creator of this exquisite piece, Johann Kunckel (c. 1637-1703), was an apothecary and alchemist who followed in his glassmaker father's footsteps. In 1678, while working for Frederick William, Elector of Brandenburg, Kunckel successfully developed the intricate formula for gold ruby glass. To protect his innovative process from competitors, Frederick William provided him with a secluded island near Potsdam, Pfaueninsel, where Kunckel could work in secret. His creations, renowned for both their beauty and the then-attributed magical properties of gold and ruby, were highly esteemed among European royalty. Today, only about 20 pieces from this early period of Kunckel's work are known to exist, making this shell-shaped goblet a particularly rare find.
The acquisition of such a significant historical artwork further enriches the cultural offerings in Amsterdam. To discover more about the Rijksmuseum's collection and other cultural experiences, explore Musemap (musemap.art) for museums in Amsterdam or view what's currently on exhibition.
