What is a communion goblet?

A communion goblet is a ritual cup utilised during religious services to hold sacramental wine. These vessels take diverse forms, ranging from simple turned timber cups to ornate silver-gilt chalices. Over the centuries, silversmiths and craftsmen adapted their designs to reflect changing church aesthetics, moving from plain Renaissance oak to elaborate Victorian Gothic revival metalwork.

How do I date a silver communion goblet?

Dating relies primarily upon hallmarks stamped into the metal, which record the assay office, the year letter, and the silversmith's mark. Stylistic clues such as vase-shaped bodies or bright-cut engraving also point to specific eras like the Georgian or Victorian periods. Unmarked pieces or wooden examples require stylistic analysis of the turning patterns, timber species, and historical wear marks to estimate their age.

Were these goblets used only in churches?

While many pieces originated as church plate for Holy Communion, others served domestic or secular functions. Pieces made from pewter or turned wood often served domestic households for everyday dining or formal toasts. Secular silver cups, Kiddush cups, and loving cups share similar forms with ecclesiastical chalices, making their exact original function dependent on specific engravings or institutional marks.

How should I clean silver plate?

Silver plate and Old Sheffield plate require gentle cleaning to preserve the thin layer of precious silver over the base metal. Harsh abrasive dips wear away the plating over time. Utilise a soft microfibre cloth and a mild, non-abrasive silver polish formulated specifically for plated items, rinsing and drying thoroughly after application.

Home > Communion Goblet > Page 2

Communion Goblet

26 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

These communion goblet vessels span centuries of ritual manufacture, offering solid tactile weight and historical gravity for collectors of ecclesiastical silver and secular turned wood alike.