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  FAKES + FALSE &/or MISLEADING DESCRIPTIONS on eBay
BEWARE: Sellers calling everything STERLING or SILVER without HALLMARKS: 'Ignorance is Bliss' can only describe the Buyer of item #300363786236 Selling for hundreds of Dollars without proper Hallmarks as 18th Century because 'Someone' said it was 18th century,.......'A Sucker is Born every day
Please,
*** BEWARE Item #250529793885. it is Silver Plate, NOT Sterling, NO French Silver Hallmark + I told the Seller.
AND
Item #320362396438 is 20thC Date Fake. # 250388792571 Ask Seller. I think this Wine Taster is missing its Thumb Rest. BEWARE!
Also,
SEE Item #300363786236 Described & Sold as 18thCentury. NOT SO! Someone told Seller it was 18th C and some poor eBayer pd $500
See# 260305951858
= FAKE + example of fake Date. Dated 1820 & Hallmark came into existence 1838 + Silversmith is Known Faker. ASK QUESTIONS, don't accept 'Stupid' answers + if you can't understand the Answer, its not you, its the SELLER. Every day, more Fakes, Rejects, False/Misleading Descriptions on eBay -Items with Dates engraved or inset COINS often mean FAKES -SEE #330145521425 SOLD $260 = FAKE and Fake ID is clear. It had 1st standard French Control Hallmark (started in 1838) + an inscription Dated 1760, LONG before the existence of the Hallmark + you have a notorious 20th C Silversmith 'KNOWN' for Fakes. EVERYTHING today is called a Wine Taster even a 'Tea Caddy Spoon' Just be aware, ask questions. Watch out for 'Genuine Antique Coin' set into Thailand copies #320078020650 + SEE this LINK:
http://ct.zdnet.com/clicks?t=1973418-cd5b23b448ae912edf0d7b82e592fda7-bf&s=5&fs=0

4 Antique French Silver Wine Tasters, Boxed, Circa 1950 RARE

  An exceptional, RARE Presentation BOXED Set of 4 small Silver Wine Tasters, undoubedly a Special Private Order. Each Wine Taster has 2 French Silver Hallmarks including the Paris Silversmith, Deschamps Frères, 16, rue des Quatre-Fils, Paris, 3rd Arrondisement. Reference is the Dictionnaire des Poinçons d'Orfèvrerie which shows this Silversmith as having the 'Tête de Coq' as his Hallmark, which is on each of the 4 Wine Tasters. Unique is the double Finger Ring. Each Handmade Wine Taster is held by means of a wonderfully strong double Finger Ring and Thumb Rest. 2 Hallmarks clearly struck are on each Taster, see Photos.Struck. Dimensions, etc. are seen in the Larger Photo, by clicking on the Photo to the Left.CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are outstanding, considering its Age and its Use.

Price on Request


CHRISTOFLE Silver WINE TASTER, Circa 1940

  Very fine, heavy Christofle SILVER Wine Taster made by the famous French CHRISTOFLE Silver Firm at a time when the quality of their work was outstanding. There are 3 clear French Christofle Silver Hallmarks under the Thumb Rest with the Christofle 'O Chess Knight C' + Christofle France + O Scales C'. The taster is 3.25" in diameter& 4 1/8 " to the end of the Thumb Rest and weighs approx. 70 grams. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply outstanding. No dents, nicks or repairs. Beware of Modern Copies. ***I sold an identical Example to 'The Elysian Restaurant' in London, England

PRICE on Request


'Timbale' or Large Goblet French Silver C.1930 Very Rare Example

  An Extraordinary, LARGE Timbale, Goblet. Beaker or Cup made by the 2 most illustrious Paris Silver Firms, CHRISTOFLE and CARDEILHAC. Fantastic for both Wine & Alcohols. Hand made in the finest massive French .950 quality Silver & Designed in the simplest form setting the GOBLET (Timbale in French) on a stepped Pedestal Base. Rare early French Silver Hallmarks for the Silversmiths which dates this to C. 1930. This Timbale is Heavy weighing about 95g. (3oz) + DIMENSIONS: 9cm high.. Hallmarked with French Silver Control Hallmark, Minerve #1 and that of both Silversmiths, CHRISTOFLE and CARDEILHAC. Please look at my Description on the larger photo. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional considering its Age and Use. Please, don't overlook this Goblet.

PRICE on Request

19th Century French Silver Wine Taster, by DUBOIS, 1867

  A Lovely & Rare example by a well known and sought after Paris Silversmith, DUBOIS who became Maître Orfèvre in 1857. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional. Dimensions: 7,5 cm in Diameter x 10,0 cm Long from Thumb Rrest to the end of the Bowl. Very heavy gauge French .950 quality Silver, approx. 75 grams. One can look at hundreds of Wine Tasters just to find one like this. The Design and Form are Classic with discreet adjustments. The Bubbles are larger, the Waves are deeper, the Finger Ring is massive and the Size is Large. There are French Silver Hallmarks both for the Fench Control, being the French Minerve #1 and the Silversmith Halllmarks. PRICE on Request

19th Century Wine GOBLET, 'Timbale' Massive Silver C.1864, RARE

  An Extraordinary, Large Wine GOBLET, Beaker, Timbale or Cup made by the sought after Paris Silversmith, Roussel-Doutre, Eugène. Used both for Wine & Alcohols. Hand made in the finest French .950 quality in heavy gauge massive Silver. The 'Tulip' Shape is both unusual and Rare and the outstanding Quality of the work of the Silversmith is quickly evident. Rare early French Silver Hallmarks for the Silversmiths which dates this to C. 1864. Unlike the principal purpose of the Wine Taster, the Timbale is the forerunner of the Wine Goblet or Glass.  When you hold a Timbale, it is fantastic in the hand and because it is Silver, it keeps the ambient temperature of the wine and is very, very practical as well as being more Decorative than Reidel wine glasses.  Consider the cost of 1 crystal Reidel Bordeaux glass. This Timbale is Heavy weighing about 85g. (3oz) + DIMENSIONS: 8,50cm High.. Hallmarked with French Silver Control Hallmark, Minerve #1 on the outside just below the Rim and that of the Silversmith. Please look at my Description on the larger Photo. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional considering its Age and Use.
Reserved for Jim. SORRY, SOLD

French Silver WINE TASTER by 'PARROD, Marc' Circa 1969

   Lovely French Silver Wine Taster from Dijon France by well known Silversmith, Marc Parrod. The Quality is outstanding, Quadruple SILVER plated. It is Hallmarked on the outside of the Bowl with the Hallmark for the Silversmith in a Rectangle (see PHotos). The Taster is 3.0" in diameter & 4.0" to the end of the Thumb Rest & .75" Deep. It was handmade by the Parrod Workshops in Dijon France for the 1969 IW (International Wine Conference) & so Hallmarked on the outside of the Bowl.The CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply outstanding. No dents, nicks or repairs.
Price on Request


19th Century French Silver Wine Taster, by COIGNET, C. 1893

  A Magnificent & Rare example by a well known and sought after Paris Silversmith, Louis COIGNET who became Maître Orfèvre in 1893. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional. Dimensions: 3" Diameter x 1 1/8" Deep x 4 1/4" Long from thumb rest to end of Bowl. Very heavy gauge French .950 quality Silver, approx. 83 grams. One Examines hundreds of Wine Tasters just to find one like this. The Design and Form are Classic with discreet adjustments. The Bubbles are larger, the Waves are deeper, the Finger Ring is massive and the Size is Large. There are 3 French Silver Hallmarks both for the Fench Control, being the French Minerve #1 and the Silversmith Halllmarks. PRICE on Request

RARE French Sterling Silver Wine Taster, by Ravinet d'Enfert inset with Sterling Plaque by Marcel RENARD, Napoléon III

  A remarkably beautiful, handmade, finest .950 French solid Silver Wine Taster, a Rare example by a very well known and much sought after Paris France Silversmith, Ravinet d'Enfert, whose Workshop was located at 83, rue du Temple in the 3rd Paris Arrondisement. Very heavy gauge French .950 quality Silver, approx. 75 grams. One finds hundreds of wine tasters and only one like this one. The Bowl has an inset French Silver Medallion in Hallmarked .950 Sterling signed by a leading French Artist, 'Marcel Renard'. Along with Dropsy, RENARD is regarded as one of the finest Medallists in Europe. His Bronze Medals sell for Hundred's of Dollars. Hallmarks Include the French Minerve Head N°1 (950/1000) indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling 925/1000), the Silversmith, Ravinet d'Enfert and by Marcel RENARD.
CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional
.
PRICE on Request.


19th Century French Silver Wine Taster, by BOULENGER, C. 1890

  A Magnificent & Rare example by a well known and sought after Paris Silversmith, Maître orfèvre, Adolphe BOULENGER. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional. Dimensions: 3.5" Diameter x 1 1/8" Deep x 4 3/8" Long from thumb rest to end of Bowl. Very heavy gauge French .950 quality Silver, approx. 115 grams. One finds hundreds of wine tasters for one like this. The Design and Form are Classic with discreet adjustments. The Bubbles are larger, the Waves are deeper, the Finger Ring is massive and the Size is Large. Although there is a Date 1910, I believe that this was added later. There are 4 French Silver Hallmarks, 2 French Minerve #1 and 2 Silversmith halllmarks. The Silvermsmith Hallmark in the pHoto is on the Thumb Rest.
SEE my SILVER for other Boulenger Examples.
PRICE on Request

11 Wine Tasters from the 18TH & 19th Century, Antique French Sterling Silver

  11 Antique Silver Wine Tasters, 18TH & 19th Century French Sterling Silver each in French .950 quality Silver Wine Tasters and each Unique and each made by different French Silversmiths. Each is clearly Hallmarked and the quality of the workmaship on each is remarkably beautiful. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY of each is simply outstanding and each is in its own way, unusual. One does not find examples like this easily. I am adding these Examples, from my Personal Collection for general Collector information.
Prices on Request

DICTIONARY of French Hallmarks & Silversmiths

  This invaluable Copy of the out-of-print "Dictionnaire des Poinçons d'Orfeverie" contains 166 pages including illustrations of Hallmarks of French silversmiths including their addresses, their successors and covers a period from the 18th century until the 19th century. Invaluable to Dealers, Collectors and anyone interested in French Silver Plate and Sterling. The Book lists a great number of lesser known French Silversmtihs. $33.88 includes US Book rate Postage

Antique French .950 Sterling SILVER WINE TASTER, Napoléon III Circa 1870 by FRENAIS
  Large, heavy and very finely made French SILVER Wine Taster weighing about 90g, approx 3oz. in the finest .950 grade Silver, finer than Sterling. There 3 French Silver Hallmarks, stamped on the underside of the Finger Ring, see Photos. The well known Paris Silversmith, FRENAIS, 91 Avenue Kléber, Paris, 16th Arrondisement. (Grosjean et Cie, successor) As well, the French Minerve Head N°1 stamped underneath and on the outside of the Bowl, indicating the finest Silver, finer than Sterling. Diameter 3 1/8" x 4.25" Long x 1" deep. Note the. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are extremely fine and excellent condition. COMPARE with item # 320224759979, $825. Price on Request

XIXth Century BORDEAUX Wine Taster by CHRISTOFLE France
RARE "Ombilic" Model

  SUPERB & Rare French CHRISTOFLE Bordeaux Silver Wine Taster. Original Bordelaise or Bordeaux Model, called 'Ombilic'. Clearly Hallmarked on the outside bottom footed Rim with early Christofle Silver Hallmarks including Charles Christofle, founder of CHRISTOFLE. (see Photos) The simplicity & quality of the work are outstanding. It is heavy and it is only one of 2 of its kind I have ever seen made by Christofle. I sold my other example to a collector in Virginia. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent considering its age and use . One does not find these early examples like this easily. COMPARE with eBay item #270256260959, Dented, Awful Condition, Unknown Silversmith etc. & still Sold for $275 and See & Compare a Christofle Wine Taster on eBay item# 120207060534 $295. no comparison.
Price on Request. *** RESERVED for Jim. Sorry, SOLD


EVOLUTION of the Antique Wine Taster to the Classic 19th Century Examples

  The Original Bordeaux Wine taster did not resemble what it is today. See the larger photo by clicking on the small photo to the left. Since about 1838, we have the Classic 19th Century example which continues to be the most practical and easy to use Wine Taster both for Professionals and amateurs. However, until one has held the Ombilic model, one does not know how comfortable, simple and wonderful to examine all of the important aspects of Wine visually. Notice also the difference in size, depth and bottoms of the bowls. PRIVATE COLLECTION

19th Century Antique Wine Taster .950 Silver, France - RARE Ombilic

  Superb French massive Silver Wine Taster, Original Bordeaux Model, called Ombilic. Clearly Hallmarked on the outsideof the Finger Ring with the Minerve Head #1 French Silver control mark, finer than Sterling Silver. The simplicity & quality of the work are outstanding. It is the only one of its kind I have ever seen. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. One does not find examples like this, easily. SOLD to a PRIVATE COLLECTOR

6 Antique Wine Tasters 19th Century Sterling, with inset Genuine Silver COINS

   6 French .950 quality Silver Wine Tasters each with a Silver Coin inset into the bottom. Each is clearly Hallmarked and the quality of the work on each is remarkably beautiful. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY of each is simply outstanding and each is both unusual and unique. One does not find examples like this easily.
From my Collection


Antique French WINE TASTER, Solid Sterling Silver, 1800'S

  Very fine, heavy handmade & unique Antique French Wine Taster in massive Silver weighing about 70 grams. French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000) stamped twice on the Ring Handle + on the side. The Silversmith's Marks include initials in a rectangular lozenge, "L - Horse- G". The taster is 2.75" in diameter not including Thumb Rest & .75" deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are pristine. Note the thickness of the rim. Price $435

CHRISTOFLE WINE TASTER, 'Gallia Collection' Circa 1930 - Period, Art Deco

   Lovely Antique Christofle Silver Wine Taster from the GALLIA Collection (quadruple SILVER plated) and made by the famous French CHRISTOFLE Silver Firm at a time when the quality of their work was outstanding. There are 3 clear French Christofle Silver Hallmarks with the early Christofle 'O Chess Knight C' + CHRISTOFLE FRANCE + Colln Gallia. The taster is 3.1/8" in diameter & 4.25" to the end of the Thumb Rest not including the Thumb Rest & .75" Deep. Christofle reserved its finest work for its Gallia Collection. I have often seen later COPIES of this Taster, Item # 2291743448 sold for $130 NOT made in Paris. With mine, the CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply outstanding. No dents, nicks or repairs. If you held both you would know in a moment the DIFFERENCE.

SORRY, Sold to Toni
, for her 'Sommelier'

3 French Antique Sterling Silver WINE TASTERS Dating from the 19th Century

  <COMPARE if you will, with #6559339721 described as 'Solid Silver' = Plated Silver & #6559279001 described as 'Sterling Silver', really Silver Plated + Look at the Prices!!!! >Antique Sterling Tastevin BEWARE of Wine Tasters that are Dated and Seller dates it by Date engraved or, Date of Coin......Wrong!

PRICES on Request

Antique Silver WINE TASTER 18th Century - before the 1789 French Revolution

  Not for the 'faint of heart', nor for 'just anybody' rather, for the serious Collector who can afford it! The price may seem expensive, but, for what it is, probably the finest quality Wine Taster in a Private collection. It weighs more than 350 grams and the Silversmith set a new Standard for Quality. p.s. I neglected to mention that this Taster was sold some time ago by me to a Collector who has asked me to offer it for re-sale on his behalf.

SORRY, this most exceptional, unique Taster has been SOLD to a Collector

Antique Silver Tastevin WINE TASTER Circa 1870 Napoléon III Unusual Model-Weinprobierschale

  Lovely large, heavy massive French Silver Wine Taster or Tastevin Hallmarked with 3 French Silver Control Minerve Heads N°1 stamped on the underside of the Finger Ring & on the inside of the Bowl. (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000). Hallmark of the Maitre D'orfèvre 'R sac de voyage C'. Silversmith was 'Copin' 23 rue Chapon, Paris. Diameter of Bowl is 3.5" & 1" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. The Silversmith hand engraved a unique Grape & Vine decor on the outside of the Bowl below the extended, wide spillage Lip.
RESERVED for Robyn, a great Collector in London, England. Sorry, SOLD

Antique XIXth Century French Solid Sterling Silver WINE TASTER

  Fine, large, deep & heavy (2+ oz.) Antique French Wine Taster or Tastevin in massive French Silver. Stamped on bottom of thumb rest ring & on the inside of the Bowl with the French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + 1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000). Silver maker's Mark indistinguishable. Diameter of Bowl is 3" & 1" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent considering age and use. 'Girard' (original owner) is beautifully engraved on the Thumb Rest. $385

Antique Silver WINE TASTER 'Bordeaux' Circa *1850* period of Napoléon III

   Fabulous XIXth Century Handmade Wine Taster from the Bordeaux region of France. Collectors of Silver understand the importance of 'clear, legible' Hallmarks & these are early Boulenger Hallmarks. There appears to be 4 French Silver Hallmarks including: that of the Master Silversmith which is 'Boulenger' Paris (on the outside of the Bowl) BOULENGER was located at 4, rue du Vert-Bois, Paris -Reference P. 122 'Dictionnaire des Poinçons d'Orfèverie. Minerve Head N°1 (1838) 2 times, indicating .950/1000 quality Silver (finer than Sterling) on the outside of the Bowl & on the underside of the Finger Ring. Reference is the Book on Silver, "Tardy, Les poinçons d'Argent" @ P.199 for the Minerve. There is also a tiny French Silver control Hallmark, the head of an Eagle. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are Excellent. SEE another sold on eBay.
SORRY, SOLD to a Doctor Collector, in Islandia NY

Historically important WINE TASTER by WISKEMANN, Crown + Cross of Malta   
  XIXth Century Xfine, Large, Heavy (65grams-2.5oz) Wine Tasting Cup or Tastevin made by a well known but seldom seen Silversmith, 'Wiskemann' Brussels, Belgium. I have a set of his Silver KNIFE RESTS so I know his work. Beautifully engraved with Bubbles & Waves or Lobes and a Spillage Lip on the Bowl which is quite unusual. French Silver Hallmarks, french Minerve Head N°1 (950/1000) indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling 925/1000) stamped on the Bowll and 2 other French Silver Hallmarks, Eagle's Heads on the Finger Ring and the top of the Thumb Rest. Engraved in the Bowl is a Crown with the Cross of Malta, MONTBEL + initials and 2 dates which I have not yet identified. The taster is 3.25" in diameter & 1/2" Deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. SEE item #7308636752 to see what price people pay for Silver Plate listed as Sterling. PRICE on Request

English Sterling Silver WINE TASTER, Dated 1936 - RARE

   This is an unique, very heavy (104grams - 3.5oz) Handmade Wine Taster from a well known English firm of Silversmiths. Crichton Bros. 22, Old Bond Street, London England and made in 1936. There are 4 English Sterling Silver Hallmarks. Inset is an English Commemorative Sterling Silver Coin with King George VI & Queen Elizabeth honoring the Coronation in Westminster Abbey of King George VI who took the Throne after Edward VIII. Fabulous Thumb Rest. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply superb as expected from English Silversmiths. The Taster is 3.5" in Diameter & 4 1/8" to the end of the Thumb Rest with a lovely 1" depth which helps avoid spillage. Sorry, SOLD to Jim.

Xtra fine French Sterling Silver WINE TASTER, Napoléon III C. 1860

   Fabulous, large, very heavy (110grams - +/-4oz) Handmade Wine Taster from a well known Parisian Silversmith. CHAPUS, Charles. Fabulous Thumb Rest. Marque de L 'Orfèvre 'CHAPUS' on underside of Thumb Rest P. 95 Reference ‘Dictionnaire des Poinçons de Fabricants d’ouvrages d’or et d’Argent Paris 1838-1875’ CHAPUS, Charles #00835. Orfèverie, couverts en maillechort. Adresse 9, passage Saint-Sébastien. Insculpation: 5 Sepembre 1860 # Préfecture: 6989 # Guarantie: 6797 & Documention: APG57. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply superb. The Taster is 3 1/8" in Diameter & 4 3/8" to the end of the Thumb Rest & 1" deep. Initial R H or H R on outside of Bowl.
RESERVED Sale Pending to a Doctor in Clifton, Virginia. Sorry, SOLD

Early CHRISTOFLE WINE TASTER, Charles Christofle Circa 1860

   This is by far the earliest model of Wine Taster from the founder of Christofle, 'Charles Christofle' and made in France circa 1860. It is modeled after an 18th Century Wine Taster having a very simple form. In original condition with the most beautiful silver patina and bearing the early Christofle Silver Marks, " CHRISTOFLE + C Scales C + Bees + Stars". CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are simply superb. For the Collector of Christofle or early Wine Tasters. The taster is 3 1/8" in Diameter & 4 1/8" to the end of the Thumb Rest. Sorry, SOLD
See & Compare a Christofle Wine Taster on eBay item# 120207060534 $195

French WINE TASTER, Solid Silver XIXth Century Bordeaux

  Extremely fine Wine Taster from a Silversmith who ceased business in 1864, 140 years ago. There are 3 Silver Hallmarks, Minerve Head N°1 (1838) (Reference is "Tardy, Les poinçons d'Argent @ P.199) & Silversmith's marks 'G + Dé à jouer avec Gobelet + B' (i.e. G Dice + Dice Cup + G). The Master Silversmith is BESEGHER, Reference, see P. 79 'Dictionnaire des Poinçons d'Orfèverie Minerve Head N° 1 clearly stamped on Finger Ring + on inside of Bowl. Silversmith stamped his Silver Hallmark on the Thumb Rest. The taster is 3" in diameter & 1" Deep & weighs about 50 grams. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. SOLD on eBay as Item #2271021830

TIFFANY & Co. Paris - Antique SILVER & GOLD WINE TASTER, signed

  TIFFANY & Co. Paris France (one of the World's best known & most expensive shops sold this massive Silver & Gold (Vermeil, 18K) Wine Taster in the last Century. French Silver Control Hallmarks including the Silversmith, Tiffany & Co. France. Quite heavy weighing about 55 grams (-2ounces). Bowl is well formed and deep and unusaual or unique in its form. The Thumb Rest is quite unusual in the form of a 'Shell'. Dimensions: 3 1/8" diameter. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional. When one considers the price of a tie, scarf or purse at 'TIFFANY'S', this one of a kind collector's item is Priceless!
Sorry, SOLD to a Dr. Wine & Wine Taster Collector in Virginia

XIXth Century French SILVER WINE TASTER, signed 'HERMES' - 1772 Ag Coin

  HERMES, Paris France (one of the World's best known & most expensive shops sold this .950 Silver Wine Taster more than 100 years ago. French Minerve Head N°1 indicating .950/1000 quality Silver (finer than Sterling) stamped twice. Very heavy weighing about 125 grams (4 ounces). Bowl is well formed and deep and there is a lovely balance when holding it. The Thumb Rest and Ring are solid heavy guage Silver. It is engraved with the name 'HERMES PARIS' & inset with an original 18th Century Coin, from Louis XV (1723-1774) dated 1772. Dimensions: 3 1/8" diameter. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are exceptional. When you consider the price of a tie, scarf or purse at 'Hermes', this one of a kind Collector's item is Priceless! Master Silversmith was one of Paris's finest in the XIXth Century, Ravenet d'Enfert who created for Napoléon III.
Sorry, SOLD to Robyn, Collector, London England

RARE WINE TASTER, Solid Silver + Gold 'CHRISTOFLE' early 1800'S

  An extremely fine, large & heavy Antique French Wine Taster in massive Silver with gold by the famous French CHRISTOFLE Silver firm. Weighs 135 grams. There are French Silver control Hallmarks (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000), Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (stamped twice) + very early Christofle 'Bumble Bee with C & C' + Scales with a Crown. The taster is 4" in diameter not including the Thumb Rest & 1.5" Deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent.

Sorry, just SOLD to a Dr. and Wine Collector in NYC
RARE -1800's CHRISTOFLE Solid Silver WINE TASTER

  Fine, very heavy (110 gr) massive Silver Antique Wine taster is simple yet elegant. SILVER (950/1000) is finer than Sterling. Stamped with French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000) + 'C & Cross of Malta & B in a key shaped stamp + Christofle's early 'O + C with a Bumblebee & 3 Stars". RARE. The 'C & B' stands for Cailar - Bayard, important Paris Silversmiths who were taken over by CHRISTOFLE. 4.75" diameter to Thumb Rest. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are outstanding.
Reserved, Sale Pending to Dr. Wine Taster Collector in Virginia. Sorry SOLD

XIXth Century SPANISH Sterling SILVER WINE TASTER, Circa 1870

  Spanish Wine Tasters are difficult to find. This beautifully detailed Handmade Wine Taster is quite heavy weighing about 110 grams. Bowl is well formed and deep with a 'Spill Guard'. The Thumb Rest and Ring are portrayed in the form of a Serpent. It is beautifully engraved with the name of the original owner, 'H. Cammas' and the oxidation in the design emphasizes the outline of the Vignes sculpted by the Silversmith. There is a Spanish Silver 2 Pesetas Coin inset in the bowl, dated 1870 + Silver Hallmark. Most likely Coin Silver. Dimensions: 9cm (3.5") in diameter & 3cm (1 1/8 ") deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent.
Sorry, SOLD to Robyn, a Collector in England + 5 others

XIXth Century French SILVER WINE TASTER, Circa 1838

   A very fine, beautifully detailed antique Wine Taster in solid French .950 quality Silver (finer than Sterling) with several French Silver Hallmarks, Minerve Head + N°1 including the Silversmith. The French Silver Control Hallmarks are counterpunched. Quite heavy weighing about 55 grams (-2oz). Bowl is well formed and deep and there is a lovely balance when holding it. The Thumb Rest and Ring are solid and heavy guage Silver. It is beautifully engraved with the name of the original owner, 'L. Gambut' from Genoully. Dimensions: 7cm (2.76") in diameter & 2cm (.80") deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY -excellent. Sorry, SOLD

French Sterling Silver WINE TASTER 1 Franc Silver Coin 1899 Serpent Handle

  Extra Fine, heavy (about 120gr - 4oz) end of the 19th Century Wine Tasting cup or Tastevin beautifully handmade with a fabulous Serpent Handle. French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000) + Maker's Mark and several other Silver Hallmarks on the outside of the Bowl. On the underside of the Thumb Rest there is the 'Cigne'. Interior inset with a genuine Silver 1 Franc 1899 coin. One finds many 5 Franc Coins but rarely a 1 Franc coin. Unusual & well detailed Snake Handle. 'J. Garibal' engraved on the Bowl. The taster is 3 1/8" in diameter x 1" deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent.
RESERVED Sorry, SOLD to Collector in Andover, MA.

Burgundy SILVER WINE TASTER, Circa 1850, Pristine

   Rare to find a true 'Burgundy' Wine Taster from a Domaine which existed more than 150 years ago and is no longer. This is so particularly in this miniscule region which can fit comfortably into 1 Domaine in Bordeaux. Here we see the true art of the Silversmith employed in this handmade tastevin for the Domaine, 'M. Doudet-Naudin Burgogne'. The Thumb Rest is fabulous. The silver quality, condition and overall design are outstanding. Notice the wide 'lip' which overhangs the inside of the Bowl. There are 4 Silver Hallmarks, all counterpunched, Minerve Head N°1 twice, Silversmith's marks 'M * L' + an early French Hallmark on the outside of the Bowl. I believe the Silversmith to be Moré-Legorju, Guarantee #03264, P. 298 Dictionnaire des Poinçons, 1838-1875. Dimensions: 3.5" to Thumb Rest, weighs about 35 grams. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are outstanding & in nearly prisine Condition. A treasured heirloom.
Sorry, just SOLD

Bordeaux WINE TASTER, Antique French SILVER

   A very fine, handmade Silver French XIXth Century Wine Taster weighing about 3 oz or about 90 grams in massive .950 French Silver. One sees many weighing less than 1/2 of this one. The Silversmith's Marks, stamped on the Ring Handle of the thumb rest are worn, but, after examining them and the Dictionary of French Silver Marks closely, I believe the Silversmith to be, 'Perrin, O. J.' formerly at 33, rue des Archives, Paris, reference is P. 87 of the Dictionnaire des Poinçons, Orfèverie. French Silver control Hallmarks, Minerve Head with N°1 indicating the finest Silver, finer than Sterling, is (stamped twice) on the underside of the Ring Handle + on the inside of the Bowl together with a counerpunch, indicating that this is an early 19th Century Taster. (Reference is the Silver Book, "Tardy, Les poinçons d'argent @ P.199). Diameter 2.75" (3.75" max) x 1" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. Sorry, SOLD

'Boulenger' SILVER WINE TASTER, Antique French, RARE Silversmith

   A finely made large, deep & heavy French SILVER antique Wine Taster weighing about 3 oz. or 83 grams in massive .950 grade Silver. The Silversmith's Marks, 4 in all, stamped on the underside of the Bowl is for one of Paris's finest Silversmiths "BOULENGER + 1/4 Moon" in a diamond Lozenge. French Minerve Head N°1 indicating the finest Silver, finer than Sterling on the underside of the Thumb Ring Handle and again on the side of the Bowl. Another Ag Hallmark on underside of Thumb Rest. The Hallmarks are counterpunched. (Reference is the Silver Book, "Tardy, Les poinçons d'argent @ P.199. Diameter 2.75" (3.75" max) x 1" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent.
SOLD on eBay $494 as item #7301020426

French Burgundy Antique Silver WINE TASTER, end XVIIIth (18th) Century

   Early very fine, handmade French Burgundy Wine Taster in massive .950 quality Silver with extremely clear French Silver Control Hallmarks consisting of Michel-Ange + 1 (Vieillard) in an Octagonal Lozenge + Femme in a Hexagon + N°1 (See Photos) - Reference, 'Dictionnaire des Poinçons, Orfèverie P. 34. The Silversmith's Marks, B. N. Gravillon from Mâcon stamped on the underside of the Thumb Rest (see Photos) include initials in a diamond lozenge, "B G". Firm started in 1798. There appears to be 2 other earlier marks, indistinguishable. The taster is 2.75" in diameter (3.5" with the Thumb Rest) & 1" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. Engraved "A Jourjon" on the side.
Sorry, SOLD to a Wine Lover in Greenwich, CT

Antique Portugal Sterling Silver WINE TASTER Unusual & Rare

  I believe this to be a Wine or Port Taster from Portugal in the form of a Bell which has been decorated with a Felluca or Fallucca Boat and Chain (to wear around the neck). The taster is about 5" Tall and very heavy weighing over 20 oz. There are Silver Hallmarks and the Hallmarks of the Silversmith & also the initials J.V. which I have not yet identified. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. I am guessing that this was made around the beginning of the last century. Certainly one of the most unusual Wine Tasters I have ever owned. RESERVED for a California Collector - Sorry, SOLD to a great + serious Collector

Antique French Burgundy Silver WINE TASTER, XIXth Century

  A very fine, heavy (95+grams) handmade French Wine Taster in 800-900 Silver. The Silversmith's Marks, Roux-Marquiand from Lyon stamped on the side (see Photos) include initials in a rectangular lozenge, "R*M" + another square lozenge with the # 4. Reference, 'Dictionnaire des Poinçons, Orfèverie P. 107. The taster is 3" in diameter (4.25" with the Thumb Rest) & quite deep, 1 1/8" deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. This Taster was obviously kept in a cabinet and used infrequently or very, very carefully. Sorry, SOLD

Antique French Tastevin /WINE TASTER, Solid Silver, early 1800'S 1850-1860

   A very fine, large handmade & unique Antique French Wine Taster in massive Silver weighing over 115 grams. French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000) on the Thumb rest and the side. The taster is about 3.25" in diameter not including the Thumb Rest & 1.25" deep. CONDITION WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. Design is unusual combining 3 patterns with Fantastic Thumb rest. Reserved - sorry, SOLD

Antique Solid Silver WINE TASTER, Coin 1852 Louis Napoleon Bonaparte

  Extra Fine, heavy (90+grams) early 19th Century Wine Tasting cup or Tastevin beautifully engraved with Grapes & Leaves. French Silver Hallmarks, (le poinçon Minerve première titre (950/1000) Minerve Head + N°1 indicating finest Silver (finer than Sterling, 925/1000) + Maker's Mark. Interior inset with a genuine Silver 5 Franc 1852 coin signed by 'Barré'. Finer than Sterling. Unusual detailed Snake Handle. Weight: 94gr. 'E M Ryan' engraved on lip. The taster is 3 1/8" in diameter not including the Thumb Rest & 1.25" Deep. CONDITION, WORKMANSHIP & QUALITY are excellent. Sorry, SOLD to a Collector & Bar owner in South Korea