Probably French, 17th century

Overall the condition of the cup is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a small stable split running from the rim on one side. There are clusters of small naturally occurring inclusions to the agate throughout. There is some wear to the gilding and oxidation to the silver consistent with the material. There are some nicks and minor warping to the silver. There is a very small fissure to one of the mounts where it connects to the rim of the bowl.
"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."

The silver griffin heads flanking this charming little agate cup are conceived similarly to the creatures which form the handles of two rock crystal cups carved in Milan around 1685 by Giovanni Battista Metellino in the Louvre (inv. nos. MR 480 and MR 295). Creamy brown agate was much sought after in the 17th and 18th centuries. Note the analagous small Parisian agate cup in the Louvre, which was carved around 1650 (inv. no. MR 238).

RELATED LITERATURE
D. Alcouffe, Les Gemmes de la Couronne, exh. cat. Musée du Louvre, Paris, 2001, pp. 414-415, 471-473, nos. 198, 241, 242