Narrow lidded cups like this one were common in 16thcentury Germany and were used as gifts for high-ranking dignitaries, commemorations, or to mark the establishment of important trade treaties. It consists of several profusely decorated cylindrical parts and is notable for the magnificent central frieze with alternating vertical and horizontal scenes, the original hexagonal foot, and the lid topped with a sword-bearing soldier. The entire piece and its refined craftmanship are consistent with the characteristic Mannerism of the German goldsmiths of Nuremberg. It was acquired by Baron Thyssen-Bornemisza at an auction at Sotheby’s London in 1973.