Enameled Sterling Silver Cup, Italian Shooting Prize, Early 20th Century. Art Nouveau.

Magnificent little cup with superb, highly detailed enamel decoration.

The cup rests on a flat base, with a more flared rim.

It is made of plain silver with, on one side, a very fine and detailed enamel decoration. It features the logo of the "Italian Target Shooting Union" with a rifle, a target, a large lily-of-the-valley branch, and a phylactery inscribed "Italian Target Shooting Union // Federal Army 1922."

Such enamel decoration, of such precision and richness, is rare on this type of object awarded during a sporting competition. It is absolutely charming.

The interior is light silver gilt.

The bottom of the cup is hallmarked:
. 900 for the fineness
. AG within a rectangle, probably the silversmith's mark
. Lion within a rectangle, possibly the lion passant of English silver.

These last two hallmarks, characteristic of English silversmithing, may indicate production across the Channel.

. Later French control mark, with a swan.

Magnificent little cup with this painted enamel that enhances an everyday object. The workmanship of the cup itself is of high quality; it is heavy for its size, a testament to the care taken in its design.

7.4 cm high
5.4 cm maximum diameter at the rim

87.7 grams

Very good condition. Micro scratches from use.