A monumental German vermeil tankard, circa 1900 Applies... Lot 3017

A monumental German vermeil tankard, circa 1900 Applies silver, an illegal hallmark on the hinge of the thumb piece. Broad base, the conically tapering body with lavish decoration in relief. A square field on the front with a multi-figured battle scene before a mediaeval city wall, surmounted by the head of Minerva and winged angels. Half-length portraits of warriors with crested helmets in laurel wreaths crowned with grotesques around the sides, flanked by wild men, bunches of fruit and ribbons. Another cartouche below the handle with a coat of arms featuring two crossed rakes. The domed lid with lavish fruit and ribbon décor, a fully sculptured putto as the finial and a mermaid with a thumb hook as the lever, another mermaid on the handle. Slightly damaged in places, signs of age. Height, 20 inches. Weight approximately 2.2 kg. Condition: II