Antique French 1819-1838 Sterling Silver Wine or Mint Julep Cup, Timbale, Elisa

  

Antique French Louis XVIII to Louis Philippe era sterling silver wine or mint julep cup, tumbler or "timbale" with flared rim and engraved "Elisa C" inscripton or dedication! One of several that we've added in the past week or two, all older pieces dating from 1819 to as late as 1862 or so. Stamped with the French Michel-Ange or Michelangelo 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.

Be sure to browse some while you're with us and check back often, we have a large collection of fabulous old French & European silver and are sure to tempt. "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. Old French sterling silver, this one is rather small and weighs 51 grams. Some denting and dimpling evident, some light surface scuffing and a bit of darkening in spots/areas. See pictures for weight and measurements.