Hanau Sterling Silver Cup With Repoussé Putti, Floral Garlands And Ram Head Legs, Circa 1880

Fine ornate Hanau silver cup on tripod stand, putto and floral repoussé design, c. 1880s

This exquisite antique sterling silver cup displays outstanding craftsmanship, featuring intricate repoussé work with playful putti, scrolling foliage, floral garlands, and rich baroque ornamentation. The finely detailed bowl has a scalloped rim and stands gracefully on three sculpted legs, each terminating in small hoof feet and crowned with beautifully modelled ram’s heads. The interior is finished with a richly patinated gold wash, offering a luxurious contrast to the highly polished silver exterior.

The design includes three vacant cartouches, each framed by laurel wreaths and topped with bows and rose swags, held aloft by charming cherubs. As the cartouches remain blank, the cup offers an excellent opportunity for personalised engraving, making it a perfect gift or commemorative piece.

The repoussé technique demonstrates remarkable skill, with crisp detailing and deep, dimensional relief across the surface. The lively depiction of cherubs, floral swags, and ornate cartouches clearly reflects the influence of the late Rococo and Baroque Revival styles.

Although the cup bears no visible hallmarks, it has been XRF tested and confirmed as 925 sterling silver. The quality of the workmanship, the decorative style, and the silver purity strongly indicate a Hanau origin, a renowned centre of silver production where workshops often created high-quality antique-style objects during the 19th century, frequently replicating earlier European designs.

The absence of hallmarks is typical of some Hanau silver: many pieces were made either for export markets where hallmarking was not mandatory, for private commissions where formal assay could be bypassed, or to create an intentionally antique aesthetic for discerning collectors.

Elegant and versatile, this refined vessel would make a luxurious table ornament, a bonbon or sweetmeats dish, a memorable presentation gift, or a focal point within a fine silver collection. Its delicate yet sturdy construction ensures it is equally suited for display or occasional use in an opulent setting.

Measurements
Weight: 92.09 g / 2.96 troy oz
Height: 11 cm / 4.33″
Diameter at top rim: 6 cm / 2.36″

Condition
The cup is in excellent antique condition. The gilding remains beautifully vivid inside the bowl, and the silver surfaces are bright with crisp detailing. Some slight rubbing to the gilding, consistent with age and careful use.

• Fully tracked and insured delivery.
• Shipping cost includes professional packaging, handling, and postage.
• Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.
• Customs paperwork provided for smooth international delivery.

Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.