Essex Jewelry and Antiques

Superb Rare Pair c1760s German Silver Faustbecher Palm Cups Tumblers Dresden

$1,680.00

Presented is a pair of rare and superb condition German silver tumbler style cups. These cups date to circa 1760-1770, and were made in Dresden. These cups are made in a simple, classic form, low and rounded with a subtly flared rim, which is sometimes called a palm cup or Faustbecher. The interior has a light gold wash, which carries over to an exterior band around the rim, for a nice touch of contrast. Both cups have a monogram done much later than the cups themselves. One has EMS in flowing script, the other SPS.

The underside of each cup has a German hallmark for the city of Dresden, containing “13” for 13 loth, 812 purity silver. There is also a maker's mark of SBS, likely for Schwerino Bergkstadt, a Master working 1749-1772. There is also a letter K which is likely a date letter, possibly for 1760. Both cups also have a zigzag assay test mark where they were tested for silver at some point in the past. The cups are nitric acid tested and guaranteed at least 800 purity silver.

This pair of cups is in great condition, particularly considering the age. The gold wash of the interior and rim is in great shape, still quite bright. One cup has a small dent on the lower body on one side, which is hard to notice without picking the cup up to inspect it closely. The other has a very small dent right next to the flat portion of the bottom, which is likewise very hard to notice. There are no other dents, no splits, no monogram removals, and no repairs.

Each cup measures about 2 1/2 inches tall at the rim and about 2 3/4 inches in diameter.

This pair weighs 126 grams or 4.4 regular ounces.

-jm