Fine antique French sterling silver wine or mint julep cup, tumbler or "timbale" with ornate decoration including frieze style band with laurel wreaths & palmettes! This one bears the French Minerve or Minerva hallmark, 1st quality for .950 silver content (the tiny number "1" within the mark designates 95% pure and so higher than the .925 standard for sterling silver). The silversmith mark is for Pierre Bezon, Paris circa 1913. One of several fabulous old French cups, along with so many more treasures, that we're adding this week 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. This one weighs 110 grams and is in fabulous condition as you can see from the images. Some slight surface scuffing possible but I see not dents, damage or repairs to note. See pictures for measurements.
