1880s Victorian Blown Glass Fly Catcher With Etchings

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A relatively rare tabletop fly trap, c. 1880s. Blown glass with bamboo etchings on the body. The lid is a … Read more A relatively rare tabletop fly trap, c. 1880s. Blown glass with bamboo etchings on the body. The lid is a "marriage" piece, also with etchings of flowers in a style similar to the body etchings. A small amount of sugar water was poured into the inner trough, and flies, bees and other insects would be drawn into the body from below, attracted to the sweet water. Once inside the central chamber, insects were unable to find their way out.
This example has several flea bites around the top rim, as shown in two close-up photos. These minor signs of wear are pretty unnoticeable when the lid is perched on top.

This bit of Americana stands 12" tall with lid as shown, and is 11" across at its widest point. Without the lid the body stands 9 1/2" tall. The top opening is 5 3/8" across and the feet lift the base 5/8" off the surface upon which it rests. See less