This large container for water, one of a pair, was created as a gift for William of Orange. Queen Anne lent the fountains to Robert Harley when he served her as a diplomat. He then negotiated with her to keep them. They are dramatic status symbols, made for display on a silver buffet. In Europe water was usually offered when drinking wine, although the English never adopted this practice.
Vessel used for water
Contributed by Harley Gallery
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Holland
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c.1681
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