17th-Century Silver Caudle Cup
$5,500.00
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Caudle Cup
Marked with a crowned "DR"
Hallmarked London, 1667
This finely crafted caudle cup epitomizes the luxurious refinement of the Charles II period. A masterful example of 17th-century silversmithing, the vessel is supremely decorated with the signature motifs of the era.
Caudle cups, also known as porringers or posset cups, were known during the reign of Henry VIII but gained substantial popularity during the reign of Charles II. They were often used to serve caudle—a nourishing mixture of warm ale or wine with bread or gruel, eggs, sugar and spices—and Queen Elizabeth I herself had several specially made for her personal use.
This exquisite example is chased with elaborate repoussé that forms beautiful Dutch foliate designs that are punctuated with rows of tiny stars. The cast handles all, styled as caryatids or small faces, complement the intricate body design, showcasing the fine artistry typical of caudle cups from this period. The present cup was part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied. A similar example from 1660, crafted in silver gilt, is also housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
3 5/8“ high x 6 1/2" wide x 4 1/2" deep
Provenance:
Private Collection, London
MSR, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
MSR, New Orleans
17th-Century Silver Caudle Cup
$5,500.00
Marked with a crowned "DR"
Hallmarked London, 1667
This finely crafted caudle cup epitomizes the luxurious refinement of the Charles II period. A masterful example of 17th-century silversmithing, the vessel is supremely decorated with the signature motifs of the era.
Caudle cups, also known as porringers or posset cups, were known during the reign of Henry VIII but gained substantial popularity during the reign of Charles II. They were often used to serve caudle—a nourishing mixture of warm ale or wine with bread or gruel, eggs, sugar and spices—and Queen Elizabeth I herself had several specially made for her personal use.
This exquisite example is chased with elaborate repoussé that forms beautiful Dutch foliate designs that are punctuated with rows of tiny stars. The cast handles all, styled as caryatids or small faces, complement the intricate body design, showcasing the fine artistry typical of caudle cups from this period. The present cup was part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied. A similar example from 1660, crafted in silver gilt, is also housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
3 5/8“ high x 6 1/2" wide x 4 1/2" deep
Provenance:
Private Collection, London
MSR, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
MSR, New Orleans