French Tastevin Wine Taster with Louis XIV Coin Medallion
Hollowware (Tastevin / Wine Taster / Small Porringer) · Unidentified regional French silversmith. Historically, these were produced by various craftsmen in wine regions such as Burgundy and Bordeaux. The absence of a visible maker's mark in the photograph suggests a smaller provincial workshop.
Pattern: Traditional Louis XIV Medallion Pattern; a classic French design utilizing numismatic elements within functional hollowware.
Type
Hollowware (Tastevin / Wine Taster / Small Porringer)
Maker
Unidentified regional French silversmith. Historically, these were produced by various craftsmen in wine regions such as Burgundy and Bordeaux. The absence of a visible maker's mark in the photograph suggests a smaller provincial workshop.
Material
Likely First Standard French Silver (.950) or Second Standard (.800). Based on the heavy tarnish and luster, it appears to be solid silver rather than plate, though silver-on-copper 'Sheffield Style' variants exist.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 7-9 cm (approx. 3-3.5 inches) excluding the handle. Estimated weight between 60-100 grams depending on silver thickness.
Description
This classic French tastevin is a quintessential tool of the sommelier, featuring a shallow, reflective basin centered by a regal profile of the Sun King, Louis XIV. The high silver content is evident in the deep, dark violet-black tarnish, which when polished, would provide the necessary brilliance to inspect the 'legs' and clarity of a vintage wine. The fan-shaped handle adds a touch of Elegance while remaining functional for cellar use.
Key Features
Central Louis XIV numismatic medallion, fluted 'shell' thumbpiece, and traditional shallow-well basin. The contrast between the beaded medallion border and the plain walls is a signature of this style.
Material & Composition
Likely First Standard French Silver (.950) or Second Standard (.800). Based on the heavy tarnish and luster, it appears to be solid silver rather than plate, though silver-on-copper 'Sheffield Style' variants exist.
Finish & Decoration
The bowl features a central repoussé or inset medallion depicting a profile of King Louis XIV surrounded by a beaded border. The thumbpiece (prise) is decorated with a fluted fan or 'coquille' (shell) motif. The surface shows a high-level of oxidation (tarnish).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the photo, but typically found on the exterior rim or the underside of the handle. Expected marks would include the French Minerva head (silver standard) and a lozenge-shaped maker's mark.
Construction Details
The bowl is likely raised or die-struck. The thumbpiece is cast separately and silver-soldered to the rim. The central medallion appears to be struck into the metal or an inset cast replica of a historical coin.
Functional Features
Shallow bowl designed to catch light to judge the clarity and color of wine. The flat thumbpiece allows for a steady one-handed grip during tasting.
Handle & Grip Details
Single-piece fan-shaped horizontal handle (prise) with radial fluting, providing a textured grip for the thumb. It is securely soldered to the top edge of the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Good quality commercial silversmithing. The soldering point between the handle and bowl is clean, and the detail in the king's hair on the medallion shows careful striking.
Authentication Indicators
The heavy, dark tarnish is consistent with high-purity silver. The crispness of the shell handle indicates a quality casting rather than a cheap modern replica. Further authentication would require locating the Minerva hallmark.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, likely from a region with a strong viticulture tradition. French silver standards are among the highest in Europe, often exceeding the .925 sterling standard.
Era & Period
20th Century Revival of French Baroque style. While the design references the 17th century, the construction and handle style suggest a late 19th or early 20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1950. The wear patterns and style of the medallion suggest a mid-century souvenir or functional sommelier tool rather than a 17th-century original.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French wine culture and the professional guild of sommeliers. It represents the intersection of luxury metalwork and the agricultural science of viniculture.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The piece is heavily tarnished with significant sulfide buildup. There are visible surface scratches and some pitting/corrosion in the basin. No major dents or structural breaks are apparent.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD if solid French silver; $25 - $40 if silver-plated. Value is driven by silver weight and the clarity of the hallmarks.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a thorough cleaning with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Due to the deep tarnish, a silver dip might be used briefly for the crevices, followed by a hand polish to restore the mirror finish necessary for its functional use.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with small ash trays or nut dishes, but the flat, specialized handle and coin-center are specific to wine tasters. Christofle produced similar silver-plated versions in the 'Gallia' line.
Interesting Facts
Tastevins were traditionally worn around the neck on a chain or ribbon by sommeliers and wine makers. They were specifically designed before electric light was common; the reflective silver and textured patterns helped maximize candle or torch light to see the wine's color.