Neo-Byzantine chalice cup from the early 20th century.

Magnificent historicist cup in neo-Byzantine style, from a private villa in France, dating from the early 20th century. This piece of European revival is designed with a base made of cast bronze or brass, turned and gilded. The decorative green bands are bordered by fine threads of gilded metal that create circular cells, which have been filled with opaque vitreous enamel in apple green and translucent cobalt blue enamel inlays. The central knot of the foot features a ring of copper or bronze with a differentiated rose/copper gold bath, flanked by two beaded friezes (perleo), a classic technique of fine jewellery. The upper enamelled frieze stands out. The main motifs are reliefs of grape clusters and vine leaves in gilded bronze. In classical and medieval iconography, grapes symbolise abundance, prosperity, and have a strong Dionysian connection (wine, celebration). With a conical and tiered profile, it repeats the green enamel motif with spirals and blue "eyes" from the upper part, closing the design with perfect aesthetic symmetry. In good condition but with obvious signs of the passage of time due to its age. Dimensions: 23 cm in height and 24 cm in diameter.