Augustin Lautensack German silver-gilt wine taster

octofoil with matted panels, two scroll handles, the rim inscribed JOHANNES BUSSE 1648, with post 1864 French import mark

Previously sold Sothebys Geneva, 18 and 19 May, 1998, lot 76
M. Kiener, Zurich

Exh. Cat. Couven-Museum Aachen, 2003, no. 19
István Heller, Marienburg-Wittenberg, in Weltkunst, 69 Jahrgang no. 8, August 1999, p.1416

In overall good condition. Possibly regilt. One handle possibly refixed. Legible marks under the base. Later French control mark on border.
"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."

Wittenberg is most famous as the home for a while of Martin Luther, where in October 1517 he nailed his 95 theses to the door of the castle church. This act marks the beginning of the Protestant reformation. 
Augustin Lautensack, about whose training nothing is known, arrived from the Palatinate region in Wittenberg on 16 January 1638.