A German parcel-gilt silver beaker and cover, Christian Menzel the elder, Breslau, circa 1680

embossed and chased with Joseph and his Brothers at the Well, the cover similarly decorated with scrolling foliage around a pomegrate finial, marked on body and cover

Helmuth Meißner, Dresden (from whom seized by the East German Secret Service for export in 1982; withdrawn from export for the Kunstgewerbemuseum Berlin (East) at Schloss Köpenick)

Restituted from the Kunstgewerbemuseum Berlin to the heirs of Helmuth Meißner in 2007

Colour of gilding on inside appears to indicate re-gilding, gilding on exterior is fire gilding, very small dents to foot rim, clearly marked on body and cover, finial slightly bent and probably repaired, overall good conditon, very nice piece.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Provenance:

Helmuth Meissner, Dresden (from whom siezed by the East German Secret Service for export in 1982; withdrawn for export for the Kunstgewerbemuseum Berlin (East) at Schloss Köpenick

Restituted from the Kunstgewerbemuseum Berlin to the heirs of Helmuth Meissner in 2007