Fine antique French sterling silver mint julep or wine cup, tumbler or "timbale" with rococo style spiral fluted decoration & flower accented medallion sans monogram! This one bears the tiny French Minerve or Minerva hallmark on the rear of the rim, designating it as being in .950 silver content (95% pure and above the .925 standard for "sterling" silver). The silversmith marking is for Louis Ravinet & Charles D'Enfert, Paris circa 1891-1912. Wonderful and one of several elegant antique French cups, among other fabulous French silver pieces that we currently have available, just in from France, so be sure to browse some while you're with us. Thanks!
"Timbale" is the French term for the stemless metal goblet or tumbler used for wine, (in our case, sterling silver). The noun feminine for it is tasse, which is more like a typical cup with handle. Demi-tasse is a half or small cup. In their time, these were used for wine at the table. Some speculate this form of drinking goblet is that after which the English term for 'thimble' evolved, the form or shape being that of the thimble for sewing. The goblet predates the sewing thimble, however. A long history is France, these are much sought after and bring a surprising price as many collect this particularly French wine goblet. The earlier, the better. I've seen them fetch upward of $1000, and even the more common silversmiths from 19th century are in the $400 range and above.
Very good condition. Old French silver, it weighs 69 grams. A few small dimples to the base but no larger dents, damage or repairs to note. The rim very slightly out of perfect round. See pictures for weight and measurements.
