Pair of Dutch Silver-Plated Shot Glass Holders | Regina | Art Nouveau | c.1900

Two tiny masterpieces of Dutch Art Nouveau silversmithing, straight from around 1900. These openwork shot glass holders are stamped REGINA — the mark of Gerritsen & van Kempen of Zeist, one of the Netherlands' most respected silver manufacturers — and they are a textbook example of the Art Nouveau style at its most intricate and confident.

Look closely at the pierced decoration: Gothic arched panels with keyhole and trefoil cutouts alternate with elongated oval slots, all framed by swirling asymmetric floral sprays, ribbon bows, and four-leaf clovers in high relief. The motifs flow into each other with the organic, nature-inspired fluidity that defines the best Art Nouveau work. The stepped foot ring and triple-banded rim complete the composition with quiet elegance. For objects just 6cm tall, the level of detail is extraordinary.

A note on condition: these have been polished enthusiastically over the decades, and the silver plating shows significant wear — the copper base is visible in places, giving the surface a warm, two-tone patina of silver and gold. This is honest vintage wear that only adds to the character. The pierced decoration remains crisp and intact throughout.

Sold as a pair. No glass inserts included.

• Maker: Regina — Gerritsen & van Kempen, Zeist, Netherlands
• Style: Art Nouveau, openwork pierced design with floral and Gothic motifs
• Period: c.1900
• Dimensions: 6 x 4 cm each
• Weight: 35 grams (pair)
• Condition: silver plating worn through to copper in places — see photos; decoration intact and crisp
• Sold as a pair, no glass inserts

WARNING: Serving a borrel in these will make you feel like a 19th-century Dutch merchant toasting a very successful spice trade. Maison de L'oro accepts no responsibility for any subsequent urge to drink jenever, wear a ruff collar, and commission a group portrait.