Technical Description
An 18th century plain stem toasting glass, probably used for Champagne. Large drawn conical bowl and thin stem and a conical foot with a snapped pontil.
Date & Origin
England, c1740. Period of George II.
Condition
Excellent condtion, no chips cracks or retoration
Dimensions
Height: 17.2cm Rim diameter: 7.8cm Foot diameter: 8.1cm.
Historical Relevance
Although a common form in the 18th century, relatively few have survived into the 21st century. The traditional "story" is is that once the glass had been used for a toast, it was considered good luck to smash the glass or break the stem so that it could never be used again. If true, then thankfully this was not always the case and a number have survived into today's modern world. The form and practice dates back to the 17th century when these glasses tended to be taller with incredibly thin stems.
Hand-made around the time Grog was first issued to the Royal Navy in1740