Dolerite
originating from the Greek word δολερÏŒς - doleros (“deceitful, deceptive”)
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Outstanding Student Award 2024 / Commission for the Edinburgh Assay office
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The goblet is designed to celebrate the legacy of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh and the significant history of the city itself.
Its form is inspired by the Edinburgh Assay Office hallmark, which features the Edinburgh castle. The design abstracts the shape of the castle tower to form the top part of the goblet which is rhodium plated. While the bottom part, representing the castle hill, is plated in black rhodium to mimic the dark colour of the dolerite rock which forms the hill. Thus, the goblet represents the castle sitting atop the hill, with a matte finish that enhances this visual metaphor.
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In creating this goblet, I aimed to embody the concept of balance. Reflecting the harmonious coexistence of the past and present that is palpable throughout the city, as well as the enduring legacy of the Incorporation. The juxtaposition of the two parts, aids for the compositional and structural balance of the goblet itself to be achieved.
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Traditionally, a goblet is a drinking glass with a foot and a stem. In this instance, it consists of two parts which are equally prominent, as they are both essential to the product and the drinking experience. The goblet can be flipped upside down, allowing either part to serve as the drinking bowl or the base, further emphasizing the theme of balance and versatility. The goblet can be held comfortably in the hand and the size of both parts allows for a good amount of liquid to be contained.
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The inside structure, taking the shape of an arched passage is an allusion to the vaults and closes of the hidden city underneath Edinburgh Old Town. A great example of past and present co-existing in the city. It hides under the surface of the wine and emerges during its consumption, acting as a surprising element to the design, triggering the user’s curiosity whilst drinking the wine. It allows for comfortable use without interrupting the drinking process.
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Photography: Shannon Tofts & Eda Obermanns
