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Peruvian drinking cup, 1845. Creator: Unknown
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Peruvian drinking cup, 1845. Creator: Unknown
Peruvian drinking cup, 1845. Item from the collection of British critic, travel writer and slaveowner William Beckford, who was also an art collector and patron of works of decorative art. After he died, the collection at his home Lansdown Tower just outside Bath was put up for sale. The catalogue numbers some 650 lots, including gorgeous furniture, cabinets, paintings, antique gems, coins, agates, mosaic tables, sculpture, Etruscan vases, rare gold Japan, and what is described as " matchless china"...an ancient Peruvian Drinking Cup [Moche portrait vessel], of red clay, formerly sacred to the Incas, and extremely rare. Mr. Beckford was in the habit of remarking upon this Cup, on account of its similarity to the Etruscan ware, that it appeared as evidence of the supposed Eastern origin of the Peruvians; a notion he was fond of maintaining. From " Illustrated London News", 1845, Vol VII
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Media ID 20552083
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Beckford Beckford William Beckfords Tower Folly Inca Incan Lansdown Tower Peru Peruvian South American William Beckford William Thomas Beckford Illustrated London News
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable Peruvian drinking cup from 1845. Crafted by an unknown artist, this red clay vessel holds great historical significance as it was once considered sacred to the Incas. The cup belonged to William Beckford, a renowned British critic, travel writer, and collector of decorative art. After Beckford's passing, his extensive collection at Lansdown Tower near Bath was put up for sale. The catalogue boasted an impressive array of items including exquisite furniture, paintings, antique gems, coins, sculptures, Etruscan vases, rare gold Japan pieces, and what was described as "matchless china". Among these treasures stood this ancient Peruvian Drinking Cup - a true rarity. Beckford often marveled at the cup's resemblance to Etruscan ware and used it as evidence supporting his belief in the supposed Eastern origin of the Peruvians. This notion fascinated him greatly. The photograph itself captures the intricate details of this Moche portrait vessel with precision. Its delicate craftsmanship is evident in every curve and line etched into its surface. As we gaze upon this artifact frozen in time through the lens of history captured by "Illustrated London News" in 1845 Vol VII edition; we are transported back to a period where cultures intertwined through trade routes across continents. This image serves as a testament not only to the artistic prowess of ancient civilizations but also to William Beckford's passion for collecting objects that held stories within their very essence.
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