An interesting chalice for coments

[fernando]

This chalice, made by French 'Argentier' Christofle, was recently acquired by a friend of mine.
I know this is not a weapon, but this forum policy is rather tolerant and there certainly are members here with lots of general knowledge, being rather possible that i could enlightened towards the meanning of this piece decoration.
We can see soldiers, prisioners, ships, horses, drums, trompets and the like.
My question is: are these efects the fruit of the decorator's imagination, or could they be allegoric to some historical military event or period?
Are the soldiers and prisioners recognized as being from a determined race?
Any coments will be so much welcome.
Fernando

.