Esaias zur Linden
Nef, Nuremberg, 1609-1629
Silver, parcel-gilt, chased, cast, engraved, embossed.
44 x 25 x 10 cm
Further images
Esaias zur Linden seems to have specialised almost exclusively in the production of small ships which served as table and buffet decoration. Ship-shaped drinking vessels are used in princely households as early as the 14th century with first written records in France. In Nuremberg the tradition is known from the early 16th century onwards.
The wheels of this nef might indicate that it was rolled from guest to guest at the high table. The spout at the bow suggests it could also be used as a ewer.