Rare Japanese /Japanesque Antique French Ornate Solid Sterling Silver Egg Cup

  

Antique French Solid Sterling Silver Egg Cup. A rare and beautiful antique French solid sterling silver egg cup. Dating from the Belle Époque era, of goblet form, with circular stem over a spreading circular foot. What makes this piece unusual is the Japanese style decoration throughout, featuring a igure in a boat amongst water lillies and bamboo. Hallmarked with the French Minerva mark 1st standard, the highest standard of French sterling silver.

The mark depicts the profile of Roman goddess Minerva beside the numeral 1. This indicates a silver content of 95% (higher than sterling which is 92.5%). Lso bears the silversmith's mark which is unfortunately obscured, possibly C?

A be autiful and unique example of antique French silver which would grace any breakfast table. In good antique condition with expected wear. Minor dings, scratches and surface wear throughout.

Hallmarks are clear and legible other than the maker's mark.