Highly ornate antique French Napoleon III to Belle Epoque era sterling silver wine or mint julep cup, tumbler or "timbale" with ornate guilloche style machined or engraved decoration including floral accented banner with engraved "Laurent" inscription or dedication! This one bears the French Minerve or Minerva hallmark on the side of the rim, the tiny number "1" within that mark means it's in .950 silver (95% pure and higher than the .925 standard for "sterling" silver). The silversmith mark is tiny and only partially legible. Wonderful and one of a few fabulous French sterling pieces we're adding today, 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 to excellent condition. Old French sterling silver, this one weighs 82 grams. Possibly a tiny dimple or two but no larger dents, damage or repairs. See pictures for weight and measurements.
