French 950 Sterling Silver Tastevin (Wine Taster's Cup)
Hollowware (Tastevin / Wine Taster) · Unknown French Silversmith; likely a provincial or Paris-based workshop identifiable by the maker's mark within the lozenge. The French silver industry, regulated by the assay offices, were world leaders in viticulture-related silver production.
Pattern: Plain Traditional Provincial (Goudron and Cupule motifs absent); functional minimalist style.
Type
Hollowware (Tastevin / Wine Taster)
Maker
Unknown French Silversmith; likely a provincial or Paris-based workshop identifiable by the maker's mark within the lozenge. The French silver industry, regulated by the assay offices, were world leaders in viticulture-related silver production.
Material
French 1st Standard Sterling Silver (.950 purity). This is higher than British or American sterling (.925). Solid silver throughout.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 7-9 cm (approx. 3 inches); Weight: 60-90 grams (approx. 2-3 troy oz). This is a standard individual sommelier size.
Description
A classic French .950 sterling silver tastevin, featuring a minimalist, unadorned bowl that emphasizes the purity of the metal and the functionality of the form. Used for centuries by winemakers and sommeliers, this piece carries the prestigious Minerva head hallmark, representing the highest standard of French silversmithing. Its sleek design makes it a versatile piece for collectors of both wine artifacts and mid-century silver.
Key Features
Single Minerva 1st Standard hallmark on the handle; flat triangular thumb-grip; lack of decorative repoussé; high silver content (.950).
Material & Composition
French 1st Standard Sterling Silver (.950 purity). This is higher than British or American sterling (.925). Solid silver throughout.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the exterior; the interior (partially visible) appears smooth. This specific example lacks the traditional 'goudrons' (vertical gadroons) or 'cupules' (circular dimples) usually used to reflect light through wine, suggesting a utilitarian or mid-century minimalist design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clearly visible on the thumb-grip (handle) is the French Minerve (Minerva) head mark in a clipped rectangle, indicating it is the 1st Standard (.950). To its side is a lozenge-shaped (diamond) maker's mark, the standard shape for French goldsmiths and silversmiths.
Construction Details
Spun or raised silver body. The thumb-rest is a separate piece of silver sheet soldered to the rim. Hand-finishing is evident in the soldering joint and the punch-work of the hallmarks.
Functional Features
Features a 'prise' (flat thumb-grip) for steady holding. The shallow, wide bowl is specifically designed for aeration and visual inspection of wine clarity and color in low-light cellar conditions.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat 'prise' handle, integrated into the rim. No ring is present on this specific model, suggesting it was meant for pocket carry or table use rather than being hung from a chain or chatelaine.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior silver purity (.950) compared to global standards. The solder join of the handle is clean and professionally executed, typical of French metallurgical traditions.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark placement on the handle is traditional for French tastevins; the depth of the lozenge stamp is consistent with genuine hand-struck marks; wear patterns on the base are appropriate for its age and type of use.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Assay office indicated by the Minerva mark). French silver production is known for its high purity standards and specialized tools for the culinary and wine arts.
Era & Period
Modernist / Mid-Century French (c. 1940-1970). While the form is centuries old, the clean lines and lack of Baroque decoration point toward 20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The crispness of the lozenge stamp and the minimalist styling are typical of the post-war French silver market.
Cultural Significance
The tastevin is the ultimate symbol of the French 'Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin'. It represents the intersection of French luxury craft and the national identity of winemaking.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good condition. Significant surface micro-scratching across the base consistent with frequent use and cleaning. Light tarnish/patina visible at the handle junction. No major dents or structural repairs are visible.
Value Estimate
$125 - $225 USD based on weight and the French .950 hallmark. The value is driven primarily by silver weight and its appeal to wine enthusiasts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's). Since it is used with acidic wine, it should be rinsed immediately after use to prevent etching from tannins and acids.
Similar Pieces
Bourgogne-style tastevins (with heavy dimples), English 'Wine Tasters' (often with snake handles), and silver-plated examples by Christofle or Ercuis.
Interesting Facts
The 'dimples' usually found in these cups were designed to catch light from a single candle in a dark cellar so the winemaker could judge the wine's clarity. This plain version was more common for informal tastings or as a gift for visitors to a chateau.