‘Wedding cup (Wager cup)’ c. 19th century - Ian Potter Museum of Art

‘Wedding cup (Wager cup)’ c. 19th century

 

Originating in the 16th century in Germany, the Wager cup (also known as the Wedding cup) is a double cup in the form of a female figure dressed in a bell-shaped skirt holding a second cup above her head. The silver Wager cup was used at weddings – the groom would drink from the cup created by the female figures skirt and the bride would drink from the smaller cup. The aim of the cup was for both bride and groom to completely empty the cups without a drop spilled.

Wedding cup (Wager cup) c. 19th century
silver
11.8cm (height), 4.6cm (diameter)
The University of Melbourne Art Collection. Gift of the Russell and Mab Grimwade Bequest 1973
1973.0199

The Potter acknowledges the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation as the traditional owners of the land on which we work and create. We recognise that sovereignty was never ceded and pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging.