DESCRIPTION

Antique 19th Century Austrian Rock Crystal and enamelled Solid Silver-gilt standing cup and cover, the rock crystal tapering body, foot and domed cover profusely carved with scrolling foliage in the renaissance style, the silver mounts richly gilt and enamelled with panels depicting Bacchanaila, extremely well painted.

The piece is Hallmarked Austrian silver (900+ standard), letter "A" for Vienna, year 1870-90, Maker's mark "HR" conjoined, for Hermann Ratzersdorfer (1815-91), active from 1843 and specializing in the production of the finest Rococo and Renaissance revival artworks. Ratzersdorfer won medals at the London Exhibition (1851) and Paris Exhibition (1855), and for the 1873 Vienna Exhibition he was awarded a diploma of honour for his vast array of items, described by one French critic mentioning "rock crystal cups and goblets (...) with very fine enamelled paintings imitating the golden age of German Renaissance".

Rock crystal and enamelled silver objects by Ratzersdorfer are extremely precious and sought after, fetching outstanding records in auction. A pair of rock crystal figures recently sold for over £62000, please [follow this link](http://artist.christies.com/Hermann-Ratzersdorfer-40843.aspx) to further recent results.

CONDITION

Overall excellent condition, just minor wear (see pictures).

SIZE

Height: 29cm

Width: 10.8cm

Weight: 655g


REFERENCE NUMBER: A4381