Vintage set of 4 chrome and painted ( possibly enamel) stirrup cups with case

Vintage set of 4 chrome and painted (possibly enamel) stirrup cups with case. This lovely set of 4 cups, known as stirrup cups, are in their original leather case (Germany stamped on bottom). Very decorative; a great present shown with other items for sale separately, not included in the price.

7 cm tall

6 cm wide at the top

A stirrup cup is a specialised, often decorative drinking vessel used to serve a farewell drink to a mounted rider, typically before a hunting expedition or a long journey, with its name derived from the rider's feet being in the stirrups as they drink. Popular from the late 18th and 19th centuries, these cups are characterised by their lack of a base, allowing them to be easily held and emptied quickly while mounted, often featuring animal head designs to commemorate the hunt. The tradition dates back to ancient times, with Tegg proposing in 1877 that the custom originated in the poculum boni genii of the ancients, a type of libation for good fortune.

Origins and Evolution

Ancient Roots: The concept of a parting cup is ancient, with some suggesting its origins in ancient Roman practices of offering libations for good fortune, known as the poculum boni genii.

Early Forms: In the 18th century, stirrup cups were essentially plain, baseless wine glasses.

18th and 19th Century Popularity: Their popularity surged during this period, especially within hunting circles and the aristocracy.

Symbolic Designs: The cups became increasingly elaborate, often shaped like the head of a fox, hound, or hare, to symbolise the spirit of the hunt and the quarry.

Purpose and Tradition

The Farewell Drink: Stirrup cups were given to riders as a final drink before departing on a journey or, most notably, for a fox hunt.

"Parting Cups": In Scotland, a similar farewell drink is called a dochan dorais (drink of the door).

The Act of Drinking: The cups were designed to be held easily and drunk quickly while on horseback, with the rider's feet still in their stirrups.

Key Characteristics

No Base: The most distinctive feature is the lack of a base, a design necessity for use while mounted.

Small Capacity: They typically have a small volume to allow for a quick, efficient drink.

Animal Heads: Many examples are adorned with animal heads, reflecting their association with hunting and country life.

Materials: They were made from various materials, including silver, pewter, and Staffordshire pottery.