Technical Description
A fine 18th-century double series air twist cordial glass dating to c1750.
It has a round funnel bowl with a solid section at the base. Sits on a double series air twist stem consisting of a 6-ply spiral air band outside a pair of mercury corkscrews. Conical foot.
You often see this form described as a double series mercury twist, however that form does not exist. To be a mercury twist the glass can only have a pair of mercury corkscrews and if combined with another element it should be referred to as a double series air twist as both elements are air and not mercury.
The Mercury twist is named after and revered for its mirror-like refraction, not unlike liquid mercury. Not to be confused with a corkscrew air twist where the twist remains transparent, not reflective. This mirrored sheen is a consequence of the refraction of the light within the air pocket due to the air pockets geometry, a rather ingenious all be it surprising discovery
If you would like to learn more about 18th century air twist wine glasses, please have a look at our on line article below
Identification of Antique Drinking Glasses | The English Air Twist
Date & Origin
England, c1750. Period of George II.
Condition
Excellent, no chips cracks or restoration
Dimensions
Height: 15.8cm, Rim diameter: 4.6cm, Foot diameter: 7.3cm
Comments
This glass comes from the Michael Wallis collection which took over 45 years to build and contains over 250 drinking glasses, covering all forms from the 18th century, many exceptionally rare. They will all be presented by Exhibit over the coming weeks and months.
