Important German Gilt Hand Carved Ivory Tankard Stein Monumental 18th / 19th century w/ gilt chased repousse Start Price USD 6,000.00 Current Price USD 6,000.00 Time Left - Bid Count 2 Buy It Now Price USD 10,000.00 Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, July 18, 2008 End Time Monday, July 28, 2008 Location Metairie, Louisiana See more about 'Important German Gilt Hand Carved Ivory Tankard Stein ' Description This rare and important German tankard or stein is beautifully carved in ivory relief and  measures an impressive 12 3/4 inches in height. It has been in a close friend's family for generations - her grandfather who was from New Orleans was an avid collector of fine antiques and had an extensive collection tankards or steins. This is the only tankard that I have for sale. The base measures approximately 6 1/4 inches at its widest point. The hinged lid measures 5 1/2 inches at its widest point. The scene is a hand carved rendering in dramatic relief of Ruebens famous painting of  cherubs or putti  with a bearded male goat in tow along with garlands of flowers, fruits and foliage. Massive trees with dramatic bark and leaves / vines  are in the background. There is a slight taper in the ivory body of the tankard that opposes the angle of the bronze handle... the look is very impressive . The term is probably over used but this really seems to be an object that is museum quality.   The piece is gorgeous and shows even more beautifully that my mediocre photos. Please note that a very similar ( but smaller) tankard or stein sold  on ebay this past Weekend ( July 12th) at one of New York's most distinguished and reputable auction houses for $13,000.00 ( hammer price) plus a buyer's premium and most likely plus sales tax . To see that tankard I am referring to look up item number 190232126862  The gilt bronze base and lid each have four masks or faces among scrolls and leaves that are chased by hand in a repousse style. The stein is bolted with a screw and nut in the center of the underside of the base.  The  finial of the hinged lid is a bronze nut ( similar to an acorn, chestnut or hazelnut) that is placed delicately atop 4 leaves. I cannot find any hallmarks or signature. The condition is very good to excellent in consideration of its age. There is a small dimple at the top of the lid which could probablyt easily  be pushed back out, but I did not want to attempt to do this. Also, there is a small (1/2") thin area and a small , thin  line or crack where that runs along side one of the cherubs. It appears the cherub was intentionally carved along this line as it does not look like a defect. Please note that the shipping price will include professional packing and purchaser pays actual charges for full insurance .  Please send any questions thru my ebay and note that I will answer in the evening. Place a Bid!