Silver Mounted Coconut Cup - Antique Circa 1820

This exceptional antique silver mounted coconut cup has a circular rounded form onto a circular pedestal foot.

The upper portion of the cup is encircled with an impressive, applied silver border to the rim accented with bands of tooled decoration above a shaped border in junction with the drinking vessel.

The antique coconut drinking cup is embellished with exceptional finely carved circular medallion style patterns, incorporating a diaper pattern design and sunburst motif.

The coconut vessel surmounts a fine and impressive knopped pedestal and circular foot; the upper portion is ornamented with a shaped border, reflecting the design to the upper rim.

NOTE: Coconut cups were popular in the late 15th and early 16th centuries as it was believed that the shell of the coconut would act as a natural defence against poison. The shells shape and scarcity of the commodity enabled the wealthy to mount the shells in precious metals to allow them to be used as respectable and highly treasured drinking vessels.

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Date: Circa 1820

This antique coconut drinking cup is an exceptional gauge of silver for its type, exceptional quality and in excellent presentation condition in keeping with age.

There is some minor wear to the high points of the ornamentation of the coconut vessel, as often the case in keeping with age.

There are no hallmarks as to be expected with such a piece; the date and origin can be determined by the composition and decoration.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this piece of antique silverware.

Diameter of rim 7.6cm/3"

Diameter of body 10.4cm/4.1"

Diameter of base 9.5cm/3.7"

Height 22.8cm/9"

An accurate weight of silver cannot be provided as cup has a coconut shell drinking vessel.