Petite chope en argent et vermeil, Augsbourg, 1653-1654

reposant sur un léger piédouche mouluré de filets, le corps de forme renflée repoussé de six larges cartouches en forme de coquilles stylisées, le couvercle de même décor

Unusual shape. Needs a good and professional cleaning (oxydisation difficult to remove). Town mark legible under the base and on the cover rim, maker's mark probably HK or IHK conjoined, a sort of lozenge below, possibly that of Hieronymus Kern (Seling, Suppl. vol. III, n° 1515*). This book mentions, for this silversmith, a small tankard, circa 1653-1655, 11.2 cm high, which could possibly be the one here offered (small difference in height). Nice design.
"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."

Cette chope est de forme très inhabituelle. Le poinçon d'orfèvre est en partie lisible, probablement HK ou IHK, un motif en-dessous, dans un ovale