Technical Description
Just every now and then something very special comes along which not only stands out from the crowd but is also a testament to its era and style.
A set of six tall Art Nouveau hock or wine glasses dating to c1900.
They have clear cup bowls cased in apple green glass, and cut into leaves. The leaves encircle the bowls which are split by a wandering and continuous double prism cut, which forms a “middle branch”. The clear glass above and below has been engraved with poppy seeds, which have then been gilded along with the rims.
The stems are clear and hexagonal, with long slice cuts above facet cut basal knops.
The feet have gilded rims and are again engraved and gilded poppy seeds.
The glasses have a real ‘earthy’ Art Nouveau feel and style. The poppy seeds and green leaves very much part of the Opium scene which was popular in the Victorian and Edwardian era.
An extraordinary set of six and probably unique as far as survival to this day is concerned.
Origin is a difficult question since there are no others documented in this
style that we are aware off. The more obvious choice would be to say Bohemia, and that may well be true, however Spain could also be the answer as they were renowned for their fabulous gilded engravings on glassware from the La Granja, Royal Glass Works. However, by the time the glasses were made, the technique had almost certainly moved into Northern Europe.
A magnificent set of six and a testament to Art Nouveau.
Date & Origin
Bohemia or Southern Europe, c1900.
Condition
Excellent, age-related wear as shown. No chips cracks or restoration. The gilding is worn in places, mainly under the bowl where the glasses were held.
Dimensions
Height: 18.7cm
Rim diameter: 7.2cm
Foot diameter: 8cm
