An Italian parcel-gilt silver tazza, maker's mark bird on a branch, assay master TS conjoined most probably a variant of Pazzi no. 417, Venice, 2nd half of the 16th century

embossed and chased with fan-shaped panels, on plain reeded foot, inside of foot and outside of rim with scratched lettering and initials, marked on body and foot

Gilding now quite a bit faint but still good colour, some scratches, wear and a few dents, but generally very nice
"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."

See Pietro Pazzi, I Punzoni Dell’Argenteria Veneta, Treviso, 1992, vol II, p. 138 for two other variants of the assay mark. which are dated by the author to the second half of the 16^th century. The assay master’s mark has also been seen on another Venetian tazza, on tall foot, circa 1580, which sold Sothebys Paris, 26 June 2013 lot 257. A Venetian tazza, similar to the present example with the same fan ornament, circa 1580 was sold Sothebys Paris, 26^th April 2017, lot 259.