Photograph by Ed Pollard, Canon EOS 5D Mark II digital slr-2010.

Decanter with stopper

Manufacturer Unknown

Dateca. 1840-1850

MediumBlown and cut glass

DimensionsOverall: 10 7/8 in. (27.6 cm)
Overall, Rim: 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm)
Base: 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm)

ClassificationsGlass

Credit LineBequest of Miss Martha B. Moreland

Object number55.15.1

Terms

Colorless

On View

Not on view

DescriptionDecanter and stopper. DECANTER: Quart decanter of blown and cut flint glass. Three ring neck. Eleven broad flutes, top and bottom (flutes at the bottom are separated by narrow vertical cuts). Eleven punties on midsection of body. Star bottom with thirty-two rays extending to the edge. Minor flakes and roughage on body of decanter. Two large flakes on bottom. STOPPER: Matching stopper mirrors bottom with sixteen rays, a band of eight flutes, and a faceted knop.

Label TextGLASS FOR EVERY TASTE AND CLASS This case shows decanters and pitchers in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and decorations available over the period of Queen Victoria's reign, 1837-1901. Manufacturers made an eclectic assortment of household items to suit every customer's taste and income. Cut and engraved glass decanters were more expensive than those blown in molds or made by pressing technology. Vessels with fanciful applied decorations such as ruffles or multicolored threads also were much more costly. The Victorian table setting was an important indicator of social status. Elaborate dinners frequently included one or more wines and cordials, each requiring its own special glass. Since water was a suitable alternative to wine at the dinner table, ice-water pitchers were made with the same elaborate flourishes as the most expensive wine decanters. Guests would judge their hosts' standing by the food and beverages on the menu as well as its presentation-from the rarity of fruits served at dessert to the quality of the compote displaying them. English Decanter with Stopper, ca. 1840-50 Blown and cut glass Bequest of Miss Martha B. Moreland 55.15.1