Cf Benoit: Covered Tulip Cup In Solid Silver, Early 19th Century. Engraved Decoration, Consulate Empire.

Magnificent and rare covered solid silver cup dating from the very early 19th century.

The cup rests on a pedestal with a corded decoration. The body is decorated with very fine engraving in the style of the Consulate and the First Empire, featuring large water leaves, wide palmettes framed by scrolling foliage, friezes of post offices, etc.

The lid is engraved with a frieze of open ovates and a radiating palmette motif, in the center of which is the pine cone-shaped handle.

The silver has a superb deep gray patina, characteristic of antique pieces.

The cup and/or lid are hallmarked:
. 1st rooster, first grade for Parisian silver 950/°°, used between 1798 and 1809.
. So-called "revolutionary" assay mark: Greek woman's head.

Average hallmark for gold and silver works from the same period.

Goldsmith's hallmark: CFB with a cup surmounted by a star for Charles Félix Benoit, active between 1801 and 1809.

This silversmith's work appears to be quite rare; he notably produced religious silverware.
Covered cups are relatively rare, especially when they are so early. The engraved decoration is very fine in thickness, which accentuates the elegance of this cup, already enhanced by the delicacy of the base and the curve of the cup.

11.2 cm high
6.9 cm diameter at the rim

163.65 grams

Very good condition. Minor wear from use. Very slight deformation around the edge of the cover.

Hand-delivered in Paris or shipped by insured Colissimo.

France: €15
Europe: €20
World: €35