A German silver-gilt beaker, maker's mark lacking, Nuremberg, circa 1540

applied and engraved with profile medallions in the manner of Virgil Solis interrupted by  scrolling foliage, embossed lobes, detachable vase stem and foot, underside initialled AH AR, also struck twice with early 19th century Prussian control marks, the associated cover of conforming style with St Andrew finial and incorporating accollee armorials dated 1619, maker’s mark FN, probably Fabian Nitsch, Breslau, circa 1619

Break, loss and addition in top of cover under finial, few little dents and overall wear but generally in good condition
"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."

It is possible that this beaker never had a maker’s mark. This is evidenced by other Nuremberg examples from the 1530/40 period with town marks only. See: Heinrich Kohlhaussen, Nürnberger Goldschmiedekunst des Mittelalters und der Dürerzeit 1240-1540, Berlin, 1968 pp386-479 for a few examples. The town mark on the beaker appears to tally most closely with the example reproduced for the period 1525/1533-1547/1549 by Karin Tebbe et al., Nürnberger Goldschmiedekunst 1541-1868, Nuremberg, 2007,  BZ 03. P. 500