French Silver Wine Cup with Serpent Handle and Grapevine Design

• Embossed / Repousse - Embossing, also known as repousse, is the technique of decorating metal with raised designs, by pressing or beating out the design from the reverse side of the object.It is the opposite of chasing, where the decoration is applied from the front. An embossed or repoussed object may have chasing applied to finish off the design.
• Grapevine Motif - The grapevine motif is a decorative design that features grapevines, leaves, and grapes and is commonly used in various forms of art and decoration, including jewellery, textiles, pottery, and architecture.
  
  In jewellery, the grapevine motif is often used to create decorative elements such as pins, brooches, necklaces, and bracelets. The design can be executed in a variety of materials, including precious metals such as gold and silver, and can be embellished with gems or enamel.
  
  The grapevine motif is a popular symbol in many cultures, representing abundance, prosperity, and fertility. In ancient times, grapevines were associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and celebration, and were used to decorate wine vessels, temples, and other sacred objects.
  
  In addition to its cultural significance, the grapevine motif is also appreciated for its aesthetic appeal. The intertwining branches and clusters of grapes create a graceful, flowing design that is both beautiful and versatile. Whether used in jewellery, textiles, or other forms of decorative arts, the grapevine motif continues to be a popular and enduring symbol of abundance and prosperity.
• Hallmarks - A mark stamped on articles of precious metals in Britain, since the 14th century, certifying their purity. It derives its name from the Guild Hall of the Goldsmiths' Company, who recieved its Charter in 1327 giving it the power to assay (test the purity) and mark articles of gold and silver.
  
  The hallmark will consist of several marks, including the:
  
  - silver standard mark, indicating the purity of the metal. Sterling silver is .925 pure silver.
  
  - the city mark indicating the city in which it was assayed eg London, Birmingham, York etc.
  
  - the date mark, usually a letter of the alphabet in a particular font and case,
  
  - a duty mark, indicating whether duty had been paid to the crown, and only in use from 1784 to 1890
  
  The piece may include an additional mark, the maker's mark, although not forming part of the hallmark, will be located in the vicinity of the hallmarks.
  
  Sometimes silver plated items will bear faux hallmarks, often confusing those not familiar with silver markings.

This item has been included into following indexes:

• bowls and dishes, silver - silver, other 714
• silver, country of manufacture - French 348
• wine tasters (tastevin / tasse de vin) 78