A Magnificent Antique Georgian Solid Silver Cup/Wine Cooler Grapevine & Figural Design - J W Story & W Elliott 1811

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this fabulous piece of silverware made by J W Story & W Elliott in London, 1811.This large cup/trophy/wine cooler is made with an exceptional degree of finesse and quality - from the overall proportions, gauge of silver and intricacies, this piece displays some of the finest aspects of Georgian silversmithing. The cup is crafted from a heavy (over 1.5kg) piece of silver with a pedestal foot and Campagna shaped raised sides. The top of the cup features a wonderful frieze of cast-silver vine leaves, all intricated stippled and engraved with further embellishments. On either side, a wonderfully sculpted figural mask of Dionysus/Bacchus is present, continuing with the theme of vines, grapes and wine. The decorations are stylistically that of ancient Greek mythology with Dionysus representing the god of grape harvest, wine and pleasure. On either side of the mask, two intertwined snakes form a cast-silver handle - a unique touch of practicality and aesthetic flair. 

The interior is fully gilt with a rich gold tone, contrasting the exterior and adding a layer of protection for the silver that can tarnish over time with the contents held within. The cup also features a heavy top lid which completes the overall aesthetic and proportion - further embellishments of gadrooning, foliate design and a bud finial are present. Whilst this piece would make for a fabulous centrepiece attraction on a dining table, sideboard or part of a luxurious interior display, it may equally be used practically in the modern-day for many uses. Not limited to holding a bottle of wine and ice, this cup may also serve as a wonderful flower vase, sweets holder or even a biscuit jar. 

The cup is fully hallmarked with English marks on the base and also with matching marks on the inside of the lid. 

Size