A Fine Coconut 'Bugbear' Communion Cup (1700 to 1800 South American)

Coconut

9.00cm wide 13.00cm high 4.00cm deep (3.54 inches wide5.12 inches high1.57 inches deep)

Provenance : Ex Canadian Private collection
See Finch and Co catalogue no. 4, item no. 112, and catalogue no. 7, item no 117, for two examples of carved bugbear flasks and catalogue no. 6, item no. 8, for a silver mounted bugbear cup.

This 'Bugbear' was most probably carved by sailors for use as a Catholic communion cup on long sea voyages. The style of carving and ornamentation suggest a South American origin.

A Fine ‘Bugbear’ Communion Cup, carved with the names of Jesus and Marie
on church banners, a decorated altar with a reliquary, the lamb of God beneath and two Angels above.
Probably South American
18th Century