A continental parcel-gilt mounted coconut cup and cover, maker's mark DH conjoined in a circular surround, town mark a lion rampant to left in a circular surround., late 16th century

the body and cover rims engraved with hatched foliage in strapwork reserves,  mask and helmeted figure forming the straps, on a bracketed vase stem and domed foot cast and chased with fruit and strapwork, warrior figure finial  marked on body, cover and foot

Break in upper part of foot where screw goes, now reconfigured, Warrior finial with crack to one leg and repair join where finial meets plinth , overall light wear , one strap very slightly shorter than other two so cover mounts marginally not parallel, condition is generally good, marks are clear. The body with town and maker's mark, the cover and foot with town mark only.
"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."

Several Continental European towns used a lion rampant as their silver hallmark, although those with a left-looking animal in a circular surround were fewer. One possibility for the marks on this cup is Luneburg where a maker fitting the initials, Hans Drösemann is recorded before 1591. See: Wolfgang Scheffler, Goldschmiede Niedersachsens, Berlin 1965, no. 109