Two leather-covered cases attributed to the Nuremberg goldsmith Peter Kuster, c. 1550

Abstract

Close-fitting cases (German term Futterale) for silverware of the Renaissance period have received much less attention than the artefacts they were designed to protect. These cases are significant in that, together with the silverware, they make an ensemble and provide insight into the historical practices of care and display of treasures. The ewer-and-basin set, dating to c. 1550 and attributed to the Nuremberg goldsmith Peter Kuster, from the Reliquary of the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Dubrovnik, Croatia, underwent technological and scientific investigation, and conservation treatment for an exhibition in 2019. The paper offers an overview of the definition of fitting cases, Futterale, the materials, and the techniques of making such cases, provides historic examples of cases for comparison, and discusses the issues surrounding their preservation. The construction details and condition of the cases by Peter Kuster are provided, followed by a summary of the conservation treatment carried out. The paper contributes to the understanding of Renaissance materials and techniques and the historical practices of care for valuable artefacts.