Silver Goblet With A Decorative System, Featuring The Vendôme Column And Napoleon I—19th Century

Rare small silver timbale with a mechanism, featuring the Vendôme Column and Napoleon I – Napoleonic souvenir – 19th century

A curious little silver goblet, resting on a molded pedestal and adorned with a handle depicting the Vendôme Column, topped by Napoleon I in uniform, his arms crossed.

The distinctive feature of this object lies in its ingenious mechanism: the statuette of the Emperor is movable and can slide inside the column, allowing it to be partially concealed.

The rim of the cup bears the inscription “DIEU PROTÈGE LA FRANCE” (God Protects France).

Given its small size, this goblet may have been intended for drinking liqueur. Its decoration and mechanism make it an interesting Napoleonic souvenir, likely designed as a tribute to the Emperor’s memory, particularly during the Restoration.

An unidentified hallmark is present on the pedestal. Beneath the handle, there is an engraved inscription that appears to read “A. Saget à Vie,” though the reading remains to be confirmed.

Condition: Good vintage condition, with patina, signs of use, and slight distortions. The sliding mechanism is partially functional: the figurine no longer slides fully into the column, and its head remains visible. The mechanism appears to have shifted slightly over time.

Dimensions:
Height of the goblet without the column: 5.4 cm.
Diameter at the rim: 4.3 cm.
Total height with the figurine extended: 8 cm.

Period: 19th century, probably the first half.

Fast and careful shipping within France and Europe.
Payment by check or bank transfer.