Lot 197A

Argentina 19th C. Silver Mate Gourd + 11K Gilt Bombilla

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Argentina 19th C. Silver Mate Gourd + 11K Gilt Bombilla

Estimate: $600 - $900

Current Bid: $300

(1 Bid)

October 2, 2025 8:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US


Description:

South America, Argentina, ca. 19th to mid-20th century CE. A distinguished mate cup (mate gourd) with accompanying bombilla straw, both fashioned from precious metal alloys and the bombilla enriched with gilded details. The vessel presents a baluster stem and domed foot, all cast in a silver-copper alloy of 66%-68% silver content, the remainder copper. A threaded bolt runs through the body to secure the form, creating a harmonious profile with a broad, flared base and swelling midsection. Accompanying the cup is a vintage bombilla straw, its shaft twisted and ornamented with areas of gilt. The strainer tip is finely pierced and also unscrews for cleaning and bears the stamped mark "800 Industria Argentina." The bombilla alloy is composed of roughly 25% silver and copper with gold wash, while the mouthpiece is plated with 11K (45%) gold! Size: 7" L x 3" W (17.8 cm x 7.6 cm) Size: 8" L x 0.75" W (20.3 cm x 1.9 cm); gold quality: 45% (equivalent to 11K); silver quality: 25% to 68%; total combined weight: 232.9 grams

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

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#195800

  • Condition: Indentations and abrasions to cup, with dark patina and toning. Bombilla has some pitting and wear from use, but otherwise intact. A nice vintage & antique pairing!

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000