Fine antique French hallmarked Rococo Revival or Louis XV influenced revival style sterling silver coffee or tea cup with ornate laurel garland accented medallion, interwoven laurel band encircling the top and solid silver scrolling handle with acanthus accent. Of course it could be used for whatever, coffee, etc. but it's actually a French tea cup, not large chocolate cup and not a smaller espresso cup. Elegant, it combines a rococo inspired cartouche of a large, raised shield-shaped medallion framed with foliage characteristic of French revival silver. Louis XV style curling handle with scrolling forms and naturalistic leafwork reminiscent of 18th century French Rococo design. Also Neoclassical influences in the symmetrical wreath, ribbon-like garland and repeated oval motifs that introduce a more formal, restrained element. Hallmarks just below the fluted upper rim, it bears the French Minerve or Minerva hallmark, the tiny number "1" within that mark means its in .950 silver (95% pure so above the .925 standard for "sterling" silver). The silversmith mark appears to read "AAR" but I've not been able to find reference to it as of listing. A lovely piece, perfect for use and/or display.
Very good condition. A tiny dimple or two possible but, as you can see in the enlarged images, it's been well taken care of over its 100 or so years. See images for weight and all measurements.
