In 1852, Christopf Küchler and Adolphe Himmel, two German immigrants who settled in New Orleans, established a partnership to produce silverware. According to the city directories, their business ended in 1853. Although their partnership was short lived, both worked in New Orleans for many years. Himmel’s name continues to appear in the city directories until 1875 and was always listed as a silversmith or silver manufacturer. Küchler worked by himself and with various partners, again according to the directories, until 1871.

This goblet, with repoussé work and fashioned in the rococo revival style, was made during this brief period and retailed by the well-known firm of Hyde and Goodrich, also of New Orleans. Presentation pieces were a popular form in the 1840s and 1850s, and this example was given to a G. W. Lester identified by the engraved inscription.