The Magdalen Cup, 1573-74 (silver gilt)

The Magdalen Cup receives its name from its beaker shape, the iconographic symbol of Mary Magdalen. The cover is ornamented with repousse swags, the foot has a chased fillet and the bowl is covered with grotesque engraved decoration; strapwork on the lid. Made by the silversmith with MH mark, London 1557. Silver gilt, with engraved and hammered decoration Engraving or cutting into the surface of metal, to create fine, incised linear decoration, was a highly skilled and specialised craft. In the past, engravers usually remained anonymous because they did not mark or sign their work. However, this cup is thought to be by Nicaise Roussel, an immigrant from Bruges living in London from 1573. The fanciful design is typical of his work at this time. Birds, fruit, sea creatures, snails and winged masks mingle with curving scrolls and festoons of drapery. This style of ornament is often known as grotesque and is derived from classical wall paintings. Purchased with the aid of a grant from the Victoria and Albert Museum and with the assistance of The Art Fund and the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths