Cylindrical cup resting on four small feet modelled as lion’s paws. The upper rim flares slightly, while the tall vertical handle is decorated with a white biscuit porcelain cameo depicting a profile portrait, framed by a gilt foliate border. Raised beaded friezes encircle the cup beneath the rim and around the base of the body.
The cup has a rich claret-coloured ground, against which is set a large rectangular polychrome reserve framed in gold. It depicts a romantic scene in a wooded landscape, with a young couple walking hand in hand through a bucolic setting. Broad gilt bands emphasise the borders.
The matching saucer repeats the same claret-coloured ground, enriched with raised beading and a radiating gilt motif at the centre. Broad gilt bands decorate the borders.
The interior of the cup is fully gilded, with a finely executed central floral motif in gold decorating the bottom.
Mark : None
Dimensions : Cup: Height 5.28 in – Length 4.53 in - Saucer: Diameter 5.98 in
Condition : VERY GOOD CONDITION – A very fine restoration to the handle.
Period : EARLY 19TH CENTURY.
This type of cup was intended for serving hot chocolate, which remained a prestigious beverage during the early 19th century and was often enjoyed according to a refined, almost ceremonial custom.
Crédit Agricole
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