This wonderful cup and cover is one of Paul de Lamerie’s earliest known works. The classically-designed form displays a restrained silhouette and engraved crests, as beautiful scroll handles display the flourishes of his distinct artistic vision with leaf-shaped thumbpieces.

Hallmarked London, 1732

10 1/2” wide x 6 3/8” deep x 12 1/2” high

Meant purely for display, covered cups appear in virtually every important commission of the early 18th century, along with large plates or dishes. Developing in the 18th century into ceremonial rather than functional objects, covered cups were the ideal grand gift, and became a popular choice of prize for sports. In particular, they were presented to and used by male soc