Antique Engraved Crystal Heraldic Jug & Six Tumbler Set – c.1900

Somewhere around the turn of the 20th century, a glassblower sat down and made this. Then an engraver picked up a wheel and spent considerable time cutting this extraordinary heraldic composition into the surface — a full coat of arms cartouche surrounded by rococo acanthus scrollwork, flanked by rampant lions and trailing foliate motifs, with a delicate diamond-lattice diaper pattern filling the centre shield. Six matching tumblers received the same treatment. Probably not in one afternoon.

This is a complete engraved crystal water jug and six tumbler set, circa 1900 — the kind of thing that graced a proper dining table in the Edwardian era and has somehow survived intact ever since. The jug has a substantial loop handle with a characteristic thumb-rest, a wide pouring spout, and a gently waisted body that sits confidently on its thick disc base. Two fine gold bands ring the base. The tumblers are straight-sided and solid, each bearing the same heraldic engraving, and they stack beautifully into a set that looks like it means business.

The engraving quality is exceptional — fine, precise wheelwork with no shortcuts. The heraldic cartouche wraps fully around the body of the jug, and the scrollwork continues across the lower section. Each tumbler carries a complete repeat of the central armorial motif. This is not decorative glass. This is serious glass.

• Antique engraved crystal, European, c.1900
• Complete set: one large jug + six matching tumblers
• Heraldic engraving: coat of arms cartouche, rampant lions, acanthus scrollwork, diamond lattice
• Jug: loop handle with thumb rest, wide pouring spout, gold ring base detail
• Jug dimensions: 18 x 14 x 16 cm | Weight: 662 grams
• Tumbler dimensions: 9.5 x 5.5 cm | Weight: approx. 80 grams each
• Condition: excellent antique condition, complete set of 7 pieces

WARNING: Serving water from this jug at a dinner party will make your guests feel inexplicably underdressed. Maison de L’oro accepts no responsibility for any sudden urge to iron tablecloths, acquire a butler, or refer to your dining room as ‘the great hall’.