French Tastevin with Snake handle

Tastevins are shallow, often dimpled cups used for wine tasting by professionals. It originated in Burgundy where professional wine tasters came to the general agreement that it was easier to judge the color of a red wine when it was poured in a shallow layer than in a glass where it sat in a greater mass. So popular were such implements during the 17th and 18th centuries that even today they remain the acknowledged ceremonial symbol of Burgundy. and are still being used. This particular Tastevin I sourced from a dealer in France, it still sits in its original box. Size is dia 7.5 x h 2cm. Inscription says: Beuvez toujours – Ne Mourrez jamais, Drink always, never die. The weight is 102 grms. Postage from France included.