Shreve, SF, 'Greek Key' 'Father' Sterling & Enamel 1905 Christmas Cup

A novel item laden with sentiment, this large, handled (tea)cup has a body with a top diameter of 3 1/2" and a maximum span of 4 5/8" to the end of the handle. It stands 2" high to the rim, has a base that is 1 7/8" wide, and weighs 2.96 T. oz.

It is stamped on the underside "Shreve & Co.," "San Francisco," "Makers," "925-1000," and "Sterling."

It has a double Greek Key motif, expressed first and dramatically in the flat band handle and secondly in the applied rim with pale blue enamel detailing.

Every surface of the piece is finished in a rich gold vermeil that is matte on the exterior and bright on the interior.

The wall is inscribed "Father," in large Gothic lettering, with "Christmas" and "1905" in script below this.

In excellent condition, this is without bends, dents, nicks, or scuffing. The only evidence of use is perhaps two faint dimples on the sides and a slight imprint on the interior where the bottom of the handle attaches. The gold remains intact, but about half the enameling has flaked away.

This likely originally had an underplate, i.e. saucer.