Vintage Oversized French Silver Plate Sommelier Tastevin Cup

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Vintage mid-century extra large French silver plate sommelier's tasting cup. Originally used centuries ago in the dark wine cellars of … Read more Vintage mid-century extra large French silver plate sommelier's tasting cup. Originally used centuries ago in the dark wine cellars of Burgundy, France, these traditionally sterling cups were designed with special indentations on the interior of the cup known as cupules and godrons to reflect light - a key necessity to assess wine's color and clarity. Typically, tastevins were smaller for ease in carrying or to be worn on a chain or iron. The large size of this cup suggests that it may be intended for ceremonial use or as a collectible. Often times, tastevins are used as cigar ashtrays or trinket dishes when not used for their intended purpose by wine connoisseurs and sommeliers. The underside of the bowl is marked with an illegible stamp and the number "12," which most likely represents the amount of pure silver used in the plating solution (meaning 75% pure). See less