Accession Number

1989.002.0003

Creation Date

circa 1600

Description

Herrera style, shallow everted circular form having plain broad flat rim, the center elaborately chased and repousse with a scene of Pyramus and Thisbe within a townscape including a fountain and Mulberry tree, within a further guilloche border; originally fitted on the base with a central threaded socket. 21.2 cm. diameter.
 

Exhibition Label

Case Caption (2023): N/A
 
Object Caption (2023): 

Baroque Tazza
Silver gilt, (c.1600)
Gift of T.S.I Liquidation Trust
1989.002.0003

The word tazza identifies a type of decorative plate elevated by an attached stand, about ten inches tall. This elaborate dish was designed as part of a lavish table setting. It was made of silver and gilded with gold, but both metals have been partially worn away during the 400-year sojourn underwater.

It depicts the story of the original star-crossed lovers, Pyramus and Thisbe. First told by the Ancient Roman poet Ovid around 8 CE, the tale was used by Shakespeare as the basis of his play, Romeo and Juliet.