William Forbes for Ball, Tompkins and Black Antique Coin Silver Cup & Saucer , NYC, New York, c. 1853

This is a rare and stunning cup with its original plate. One of the hardest shapes for silversmiths to execute are panels, and this cup is a brilliant display of skill with seamless creases executed on a curve. It has an applied handle with an applied-leaf thumbpiece and an applied border with a complimentary, stepped base. The engraving on all the panels is lovely, and the front reserve is engraved:

Louis Schmeltzer
to
Mrs. Maxwell
April 1853

The plate is also stunning, and given their age, it is amazing they are still together.

Provenance:
Private Collection.

Both pieces are struck twice with 'W.F' along with eagle pseudo-hallmarks. They are also marked 'BALL, TOMPKINS & BLACK/ SUCCESSORS TO/ MARQUAND & CO/ NEW YORK.'  The cup measures 5 inches long across the body and handle, by 2.5 inches high, and the underplate measures 6 inches wide. They are both in excellent condition and have a combined weight of 10.05 troy ounces.