This exceptional antique sterling silver tyg* style cup has a plain bell-shaped form.

The body of this Edwardian cup is encompassed with three applied moulded girdles in addition to an applied moulded border to the rim.

The centre of the body is embellished with the contemporary bright cut engraved coat of arms and crest pertaining to The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC)**.

The heraldic markings ornamented with two supporters: on the dexter side a pikeman, armed and accoutred, supporting with the exterior hand a pike erect proper; and on the sinister side a musketeer with his matchlock, bandoleers and rest, all proper

The shield shaped coat of arms depicts a cross gules (being that of St. George) charged with a lion passant guardant (being part of the Royal Arms of England), on a chief a portcullis of the third between two ostrich feathers erect of the field.

This escutcheon is surmounted with the crest of a dexter arm embowed in armour, the gauntlet grasping a pike in bend sinister, between two dragons' wings each charged with a cross gules.

The contemporary engraved decoration to the body incorporates the HAC motto 'Arma pacis fulcra' - Armed Strength for Peace.

This impressive Edwardian silver cup is fitted with three C scroll handles, each with lobed terminals flanked with the aforementioned girdles.

The vessel is supported by three exceptional cast and applied paw style feet, incorporating fur textures to the elongated legs.

This exceptional cup was crafted by John Thomas Heath & John Hartshorne Middleton of Hukin & Heath, subsequently Hukin & Heath Ltd.

* A tyg is a large English mug/drinking vessel with three or more handles. The mug was made to be shared, and handed round between several drinkers.

** The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) is the second oldest military corporation in the world; it was incorporated by royal charter in 1537 by King Henry VIII. To date the HAC is a registered charity noted to attend to 'better defence of the realm'.

Learn more about the history of antique silver cups and trophies

This antique Edwardian silver cup/tyg is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The piece has been professionally polished and is in presentation condition.

The cast and applied details are very sharp and the engraved heraldic markings are very crisp.

Full hallmarks struck to the surface of the cup are all very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this piece of antique silverware.

Width across handles 15.7cm/6.2"

Diameter 10.8cm/4.3"

Height 12.4cm/4.9"

16.3 troy ounces/506g