Large Continental Sterling Silver Mounted Coconut Cup - Antique Circa 1880

Description

This impressive antique silver mounted coconut cup has a circular rounded form onto a circular pedestal foot.

The antique coconut bowl is embellished with four exceptional carved cartouches, each depicting a swagged heraldic blazon, ship or entwining snake design.

The decoration to the bowl incorporates geometric panels and cross hatching textures.

The upper portion of this antique coconut cup is encircled with the original sterling silver border to the rim.

The plain coconut vessel surmounts a fine and impressive carved wood pedestal and circular foot.

NOTE: Coconut cups were popular in the late 15th and early 16th centuries as it was believed that the shell of the coconut would act as a natural defence against poison. The shells shape and scarcity of the commodity enabled the wealthy to mount the shells in precious metals to allow them to be used as respectable and highly treasured drinking vessels.

Learn more about the use of the coconut cup