17th Century Wine Goblet Stem: an object biography

By Maxine McCarty, first year BA Archaeology student.

I found what appears to be a 17th century glass wine goblet stem. The stem has an iridescent quality to it that was achieved using a specific technique during production. Attached to the stem is a small section of what was most likely the cup, judging from the degree of curvature, and it too is made of iridescent glass. This artefact most likely dates from the 17th century because it is of a similar style to other 17th century glassware in both the shape of the stem and in the round protrusion connecting the stem with the piece of cup (1). The 17th century would also be compatible with records showing the usage of the site. The stem was found in a rubble-like deposit that consisted of a mixture of fine dirt and substantial rocks, indicating it was most likely backfill of some sort. The goblet stem could be used as a relative dating method for that context as well as giving insight into the wealth and power of the Bishop during the time period.

1: W. Gudenrath, and D. Lanmon (2017). ‘A Remarkable Iridescent Goblet with a Double-Walled, Silvered Bowl 17th or 19th Century?’ Journal of Glass Studies. Vol 59 pages 285-313.