Benjamin Pyne: The Advice Cup - English Queen Anne Silver-Gilt Wine Goblet and Cover, London, 1705/6, of British Naval, American Colonial and Pirate Interest

This large covered goblet features exceptional nautical engraving on one side and is inscribed on the other. The engraving of the HMS Advice is the finest example of engraving on English silver that we've had the pleasure to offer. An acorn-shaped 'knop' finial surmounts the stepped lid; the body rests on a baluster stem on a spreading foot. The cup measures 9.75 inches high and weighs 14 troy ounces.

Covered cups such as this are quite rare in English silver, but more common in colonial silver where there was a need to keep flies out of the drink. Used on a naval vessel, it seems sensible for the cup to have had a cover.

Superbly engraved on one side with the British frigate HMS Advice, and inscribed on the other in Latin:

I have not tarried in long journeys over the surface of the sea, nor have I feared the threats of enemies or wild beasts, O strong leader, Maurice, go well good friend; I discern through such sweetness, the beauties of the country life, a safe return and nobility. Lift high the wine vessel. Such things are worthy of remembrance.

Salmon Morrice (1672-1740) became captain of the HMS Advice after helping to suppress a mutiny against Richard Coote, Earl of Bellamont, and Royal Governor of New York in 1700. He retired as a Vice Admiral of the White Squadron in 1733 to his estate Betteshanger on a pension of £450 per year.

The HMS Advice, built in 1650 and rebuilt in 1698, transported the infamous pirate William Kidd ('Captain Kidd') and his 29 co-conspirators from New England to England to face trial in 1700. Under Captain Morrice, the HMS Advice captured a small French warship of 18 guns which became the HMS Advice Prize.

Provenance: Ex collection John P. Morgan, II. Most likely by decent from his great-grandfather, financier and important collector J. Pierpont Morgan who collected some of the very finest English engraved silver.

Condition: Very good antique condition. The finial has been reattached and the piece is later gilded (this was done a long while ago). There are a few very minor dings.

Fully marked on the side of the goblet, marked with the lion's head under the foot and poorly marked with Pyne's maker's mark on the lid bezel.