Fairbairn Cup

Abstract

From the Pearse Collection: photograph depicting the elaborately decorated silver Fairbairn Cup. Cups like these were only made at the Cape during the 2nd quarter of the 19th century, but the one depicted is probably of a later date and may be European. An enscription is placed within an applied laurel cartouche. The body has applied vine leaves, and the handles are scrolled. The whole is placed on a four-legged stand, encrusted with what appears to be rocaille decoration.