Pr, Bohemian Amethyst Hunting Engraved Glass Covered Urns, Late 19th Century

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Near Pair Of Bohemian Amethyst Engraved Glass Covered Urns, Late 19th Century

This finely matched pair of covered urns is … Read more Near Pair Of Bohemian Amethyst Engraved Glass Covered Urns, Late 19th Century

This finely matched pair of covered urns is executed in richly saturated amethyst glass, cut and wheel-engraved with continuous figural hunting scenes in the Bohemian tradition. Each urn is blown in deep purple glass and then expertly overlaid and engraved to reveal frosted, translucent vignettes depicting hunters armed with rifles, stags and deer in wooded landscapes, and carefully articulated trees laden with foliage and fruit. The scenes are arranged as panoramic friezes encircling the bodies, demonstrating a high level of technical control in depth carving, perspective, and narrative continuity characteristic of late 19th-century Central European luxury glass.

The forms are classically inspired, with gently swelling ovoid bodies rising to broad shoulders and fitted domed covers, each surmounted by a faceted, jewel-like finial. The urns are supported on faceted clear-glass baluster stems terminating in square amethyst plinth bases, the contrast between clear and colored glass heightening the sculptural clarity of the silhouettes. The engraving is particularly refined in the treatment of ground foliage and animal anatomy, with subtle shading achieved through graduated cutting and polished highlights.

The quality of the glass, the depth and precision of the engraving, and the choice of subject matter strongly suggest production in Bohemia, likely within the circle of luxury glasshouses such as Moser or one of its contemporaries operating in Karlsbad during the last quarter of the 19th century. Such pieces were intended as decorative cabinet or mantel ornaments, prized for their jewel-toned color, virtuoso engraving, and evocative Romantic imagery rooted in European sporting culture.

Measurements: 11.5" h x 4.25" w other urn 11" h See less