Who painted A Barber's Pewter Jug?

A Barber's Pewter Jug was painted by Unknown in 1850.

Where can I see A Barber's Pewter Jug?

A Barber's Pewter Jug is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

A Barber's Pewter Jug

A Barber's Pewter Jug is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. A pewter jug, attributed to the artist identified as 536_person and dated to around 1850, is displayed in the Museum of Ethnography.

About this work

Overview

A pewter jug, attributed to the artist identified as 536_person and dated to around 1850, is displayed in the Museum of Ethnography. The object is presented in a monochrome photograph that emphasizes its form and material qualities. The image captures the jug on a gently curved support, allowing the viewer to see its rounded body and distinctive handle.

Subject & Meaning

The jug’s simple, utilitarian design reflects the everyday objects used in 19th‑century barbering practices. Its unadorned surface and functional silhouette suggest a focus on practicality rather than decorative excess, offering insight into the material culture of personal grooming during that period.

Technique & Style

Rendered in pewter, the jug exhibits a smooth, slightly matte finish that responds subtly to light. The photograph employs strong directional lighting, creating a chiaroscuro effect that outlines the jug’s edges and highlights its curvature, thereby accentuating the tactile qualities of the metal.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1850, the piece entered the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is catalogued as part of the institution’s holdings of everyday metalwork. Its attribution to 536_person is based on stylistic comparison with other contemporaneous objects in the museum’s archives.

Context

During the mid‑19th century, pewter was a common material for household and professional items, valued for its workability and relative affordability. Barber’s tools and containers such as this jug were integral to the trade, reflecting broader trends in industrial production and the standardization of personal care accessories.