Fantastic antique continental .800 solid silver 6 5/8" tall goblet with ornate foliate decoration, lobe shaped stem & base and crown topped armorial style crest with fleur-de-lys & salamander figure! An elegant continental .800 silver Civic Goblet bearing the arms of Le Havre and the salamander of François I, likely circa 1890–1920. The applied shield bears the historic arms granted to Le Havre following its foundation by François I in 1517. The king’s celebrated salamander upon flames beneath the three fleurs-de-lis of France. In Renaissance symbolism, the salamander was believed to live unharmed in fire and even extinguish flames. The three fleurs-de-lis represent the French monarchy and the city's motto (not included here) is "Nutrisco et extinguo" or "I nourish and I extinguish". Because the Belgian lion added to the city’s arms in 1926 is absent (it would have replaced the far right fleur-de-lys), the goblet preserves the earlier heraldic form which means the piece is surely pre-1926. Much more than just a loosely François I inspired goblet, this piece is specifically Le Havre, François I, and the royal founding of France’s great Atlantic port. Gorgeous even without the historical reference or significance!
Very good to excellent condition. Possibly a tiny dimple but no larger dents, damage or repairs. Remnants of a gold plating or vermeil interior. See pictures for all measurements.
