Antique Sterling Silver from Nelson and Nelson Antiques

Antique Silver Beaker Cup Commemorating 1848 Hungarian Revolution

Antique Silver Beaker Cup Commemorating 1848 Hungarian Revolution

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Directory: Antiques: Decorative Art: Metals: Silver: Continental: Pre 1900: Item # 1473213

Please refer to our stock # BV233 when inquiring.
Nelson & Nelson Antiques
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1050 Second Ave, Gallery 57
New York, NY 10022
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 $3,150.00
Listed Price $4,500.00
 
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European silver beaker, 19th century. A commemorative for the Hungarian Revolution in 1848. At that time Hungary, which was part of the Austrian Empire, attempted to abolish Feudalism and establish in its place representative democracy. The radical changes, which included extending suffrage (the right to vote) and freedom of the press, were resisted by the Austrian overlords. When Austrian military intervention failed, the Austrian emperor sought help from the Russian czar, who obliged with a large army. Thanks to Russian assistance (in fact, a Russian invasion), the Revolution collapsed and Hungary was placed under martial law. A grim foreboding of future events.

On rim is tooled the phrase: “Ein andenken des Ungorshen Kriges der anfing den 23. Mai u. endugte sich den 14. October 1849”. It was in October 1849 that the rebel Hungarian generals were hung for treason. On foot is the name of a member of a noble Baltic family (the Barons von Ungern-Sternberg), a dynasty that produced its share of soldiers, writers, and artists.

The sides are inset with coins. At the bottom are Hungarian kreuzers issued in 1848. Above are Austrian talers and Russian rubles from the 17th and 18th centuries. Their predominance and large size seem to symbolize that the issues that led to the Revolution are rooted deep in the region’s history. On bottom is a coin with a message of covert resistance in form of St George Slaying the Dragon.

With two-page typescript.

Marks include 84 (that is the Russian alloy 84/96), which suggests that beaker was made in Eastern Europe. Very good condition with nice patina.

Dimensions: H 3 3/4 x D 3 in. Heavy weight: 8 troy ounces. #BV233