A German Silver-Gilt Beaker. Mark of Hans Lencker, Nuremberg, circa 1565. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2012

The cylindrical body etched with a collar of arabesques, with egg and dart short stem and spreading foot cast and chased with three masks, each flanked by serpents with coiled bodies,marked on body; 3½ in. (9 cm.) high; 5 oz. (167 gr.). Estimate $4,000 - $6,000

Notes: An identical beaker by the same maker was sold at Sotheby's, New York, 16 June 1982, lot 8.

Christie's. Important Silver and Objects of Vertu. 19 October 2012. New York, Rockefeller Plaza