Information about the Pacetti Item & The Meaning of the Maker’s Mark
This solid silver coffee cup, designed by Filippo Pacetti, is from the 19th century in the Papal States.
We know this because of the addition not only of the artist’s name, but also of the Maker’s Mark, the cross keys & tiara, that are visible on the bottom of the cup.
Beginning in 1814 fine metal artists in the Papal States used this particular maker’s mark. Napoleon Bonaparte had released Pius VII from custody after nearly four years. Jubilation was so great in Rome upon his release that the artists started putting this particular maker’s mark on their works in honor of the Holy Father’s safety.
The practice continued until 1870 when the Papal States were taken over by United Italy.
This coffee cup was created around the year, 1830, which makes it either at the end of the papacy of Pius VIII or at the beginning of Gregory XVI.
It is a lovely addition to the Collection that draws further attention to the presence of both the maker’s mark and artists continued joy and devotion to the reigning pontiff.