Gucci - Drinking set - Silverplated, Metal - Two syrup cups silvered

A remarkable pair of vintage Gucci stirrup cups with beautifully detailed dog heads, made in Italy and dating from circa 1970.

The two cups are identical specimens and are made of silver-plated metal. The dog heads are richly detailed, with finely worked fur, long ears, and characteristic hunting-dog heads. Around the necks both pieces are clearly marked with GUCCI on one side and ITALY on the other side.

Stirrup cups, or jockey cups, originate from the English hunting tradition. They have no flat base: the drink was traditionally offered just before the rider mounted and rode away. After use the cup can be inverted onto the animal head.

Gucci produced in the 1960s and 1970s several such luxury stirrup cups with animal heads, including dogs, horses, hares, foxes, deer and wild boar. These pieces belong to that famous Gucci barware series with hunting motifs.

Both cups are in lovely vintage condition. The smooth cup bodies still retain a fine high gloss. The detailed dog heads show patina, especially in the recessed areas, which allows the sculpting to stand out well. There are light signs of use and aging consistent with objects of this age.