Since the 16th century, silversmiths in Germany have produced so-called Brautbecher (bridal beakers), a tradition that still exists today. These are double cups that are built in such a way that two people, namely bride and groom, can drink from them at the same time. The cups are designed in the form of a young woman holding a small swivelled cup above her head, the woman’s skirt can also be used as a drinking vessel.
The origins of the design can be traced back to a traditional German folk tale. According to legend, a young goldsmith fell in love with the daughter of a rich nobleman. He was so enraged with his daughter’s choice, particularly as she had rejected numerous wealthy suitors, that he had the young craftsman imprisoned in his darkest dungeon. This pained the daughter to such an extent that the nobleman was concerned she might waste away and die.