Silver-Plated Tastevin with Louis XIV Coin Medallion
Hollowware/Oenological (Wine Tasting Cup) · Unknown manufacturer, likely French or European commercial silver-plate producer. These are commonly produced by brands like Christofle or various workshops in the Loire Valley region.
Pattern: Traditional Sommelier Pattern with 'Louis XIV' relief; non-specific commercial design inspired by 18th-century French silverware.
Type
Hollowware/Oenological (Wine Tasting Cup)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely French or European commercial silver-plate producer. These are commonly produced by brands like Christofle or various workshops in the Loire Valley region.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Surface appears to have thin electroplated silver coating showing wear (bleeding) of the base metal in high-relief areas.
Dimensions
Standard tastevin size: Approximately 7-9 cm in diameter. Estimated weight is 60-100 grams depending on base metal density.
Description
A classic French-style tastevin used by sommeliers and vintners. This piece features a shallow, circular bowl with a central decorative medallion of 'The Sun King' Louis XIV. The shell handle provides a tactile grip, while the interior is designed to catch light to help the user inspect the tint of wine.
Key Features
Louis XIV profile medallion, shell-form thumb rest, and shallow-walled construction. The lack of traditional internal 'godrons' (dimples) suggests this is more decorative than professional-grade.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass). Surface appears to have thin electroplated silver coating showing wear (bleeding) of the base metal in high-relief areas.
Finish & Decoration
Polished interior bowl with a central die-struck medallion depicting King Louis XIV. A single shell-shaped (fillet) handle with radiating fluting. Simple rolled rim and beaded border around the central figure.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible in the image. Typically, silver-plated versions of these contain a numeric stamp (such as '6' or '10') or a manufacturer's name on the underside or handle.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-stamped bowl and handle. The handle is likely soldered (sweated) onto the side of the bowl. Central medallion is part of the bowl stamping rather than an inset genuine coin.
Functional Features
Wide, shallow bowl designed to oxygenate wine quickly; the bright silver surface reflects light through the wine to assess color and clarity in dim cellars.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat, shell-shaped thumb grip (prise) designed for a secure hold with the thumb while rotating the wine; soldered directly to the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The medallion relief shows loss of detail from the stamping process. Solder join at the handle is functional but lacks the refinement found in high-end silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of official hallmarking (like the French Minerva head) and the soft, rounded edges of the central relief indicate a plated mass-produced item rather than solid sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely France, the center of wine-tasting culture. Produced using industrial electroplating processes rather than traditional silversmithing raising techniques.
Era & Period
Modern Revival / Mid-to-Late 20th Century. While the design is Neoclassical/Baroque in style, the manufacturing technique is modern industrial.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1980. The wear patterns and die-stamping quality suggest a late 20th-century souvenir or restaurant-grade item.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the 'Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin' (Brotherhood of the Knights of the Wine-Tasting), representing French wine heritage and the professionalization of the sommelier role.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish and oxidation (sulfide deposits) are present. Visible 'bleeding' of the yellow-toned base metal along the internal rim and central figure suggests the silver plating is thin or worn.
Value Estimate
$15 – $40 USD. Value is representative of a decorative silver-plated souvenir rather than a silver investment or rare antique.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam or cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbing which will strip the remaining silver plate. Dry thoroughly to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Solid Sterling French Tastevins (marked with Minerva head), Burgundy-style tastevins with dimpled walls, and modern stainless steel versions for tourist retail.
Interesting Facts
Tastevins were traditionally used in candlelit wine cellars; the silver would reflect the flame to help the taster see sediment in the wine. Coins were often placed in the bottom of 18th-century pieces to verify silver purity.