A set of six William III silver-gilt tot cups, two maker's mark NL (Jackson, 1989, p. 146, line 12, London, 1695, the remainder unmarked

thistle-shaped, the bulbous lower sections with granulated decoration above applied wire bases, each with a single loop handle

Most probably purchased by Sir John Trevor, M.P. (circa 1637 – 1717) for Brynkinalt Hall, Denbighshire;
Thence by descent.

Two fully and clearly marked to underside. All later gilded, probably in the 19th century. All but one with signs of significant wear. One marked example partially detached from handle at upper junction and old repair to lower junction. Also small patched repair to front lip. The other marked example with splits to rim and heavy solder repair and patched to lower body. Also old repair to lower handle junction. One with small repair to upper junction of handle, otherwise good. Another with repair to upper and lower junctions, upper especially with patch to inside. The fifth with handle detached away from old repair at upper handle junction, body apparently good. The final example in good condition for age. Would recommend viewing all.
"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."

Tot cups are small drinking vessels, of beaker form, made both with or without a single handle. They are usually approximately two inches high and were thought to be predecessors of the later Georgian stirrup cups. Tot cups, like stirrup cups, were handed to riders before or after a hunt and were meant to be drunk without putting the vessel down. The present set, of slightly larger form, resemble Scottish 'thistle' cups, made in the late 17th century.