Puzzle Jug with Philyra and Saturn (Saturn in the Form of a Horse)

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Gallery 354, European Art 1500-1850, third floor (Rubenstein Gallery)

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Puzzle Jug with Philyra and Saturn (Saturn in the Form of a Horse)

Late 16th or early 17th century

Artist/maker unknown, Italian

Puzzle jugs from many cultures are known, although this Renaissance example is a rare survival. The jug must be tilted slowly as the liquid rises through the handle and comes out one of the spouts on the rim. If tipped quickly, liquid spills from the body of the jug. The joking perversity of the design is echoed in the decoration.

Gallery 354, European Art 1500-1850, third floor (Rubenstein Gallery)

Object Details

Title:

Puzzle Jug with Philyra and Saturn (Saturn in the Form of a Horse)

Date:

Late 16th or early 17th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Italian

Medium:

Tin-glazed earthenware (maiolica)

Dimensions:

7 7/8 x 6 inches (20 x 15.2 cm)

Classification:

Containers

Credit Line:

125th Anniversary Acquisition. The Howard I. and Janet H. Stein Collection, 1998

Accession Number:

1998-176-8

Geography:

Made in Urbino, Italy, Europe

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Gallery 354, European Art 1500-1850, third floor (Rubenstein Gallery)

Main Building

Museum map

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