Gorgeous antique to vintage French sterling silver "timbale", tumbler, mint julep or wine cup with elegant shaped body, rocaille, floral & foliate decoration and large interlaced monogram! A fine piece here in solid .950 sterling silver with the French Minerve or Minerva hallmark (the tiny number "1" within designates 95% pure silver, higher than the .925 standard for "sterling" silver), it weighs 118 grams. The silversmith mark is for Olier & Caron, Paris circa 1910-1936. One of several that we currently have available 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 to excellent condition. Some very slight surface scuffing or scratches possible, indicative of age and light use. A few small dimples and on sight bend/dent to the rim but no larger dents, damage or repairs. The cup is 3 1/8" tall and has a 2 3/8" rim diameter. It weighs 72 grams.
