A highly decorative Dutch sterling silver figural wager cup, dating to the late 19th to early 20th century. This striking and unusual piece is modelled in the form of a richly dressed female figure in Renaissance revival style, standing and supporting a twin-handled bowl above her head.

The figure is finely cast and chased, wearing an elaborately detailed gown adorned with scrolling foliate and engraved ornament. Her outstretched arms support a circular bowl with applied handles, the interior and exterior further decorated with engraved motifs. The sculptural composition is both functional and theatrical, making it an impressive centrepiece.

Wager cups have a long tradition in European drinking culture, originally used in convivial settings where participants would undertake a “wager” or drinking challenge, typically to consume the contents without spilling. Many were deliberately designed in elaborate or impractical forms to add an element of difficulty and amusement. While original examples date to the 16th and 17th centuries, pieces such as this are revivalist interpretations, produced in the 19th and early 20th centuries as decorative conversation pieces inspired by earlier traditions.

This example is Dutch in origin, and the style, construction, and decorative approach are consistent with high-quality continental silver of the period. The absence of English import marks confirms it was not assayed for the British market, further supporting its attribution as a continental European piece rather than an English-imported example.

A rare and visually striking example of a revivalist wager cup, combining Dutch craftsmanship, theatrical design, and historical inspiration, ideal for collectors of unusual silver and ceremonial drinking vessels.

condition: good antique condition with light surface wear consistent with age and use. The silver remains bright with minor scratches and handling marks. Details remain crisp and well defined.

Dimensions: Xcm diameter, Xcm high

Weight: X grams