Antique Chinese Export Cornflower Blue Peking Glass Demitasse Service Fourteen Piece Set

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Description

Antique Chinese Export Cornflower Blue Peking Glass Demitasse Service Fourteen Piece Set

This striking fourteen-piece collection of antique Chinese export … Read more Antique Chinese Export Cornflower Blue Peking Glass Demitasse Service Fourteen Piece Set

This striking fourteen-piece collection of antique Chinese export Peking glass demitasse cups and saucers is rendered in an elegant shade of cornflower blue. The set compiles a complete espresso service for six alongside two incredibly useful replacement cups. Each opaque blue glass liner is nestled within a removable brass structural collar featuring a hand-pierced Fu symbol for good fortune and a scrolled handle. Perfect for adding a pop of color to a curated tablescape, this rare set bridges the gap between functional beverage service and sculptural Asian art.

About the Maker
These exquisite demitasse cups and saucers were produced by master glass artisans in China during the late Qing Dynasty to the early Republic Period. Developed under the influence of European glassmaking techniques introduced by missionaries, Peking glass factories created distinctively heavy, layered glassware that replicated the smooth texture and deep saturation of fine nephrite jade and precious gemstones. The makers of these specific pieces specialized in export wares crafted for the Western market, seamlessly blending traditional Chinese glass artistry with classic European forms like the demitasse cup.

Historical Significance
Peking glass production reached its zenith during the Qing Dynasty and continued into the early Republic Period, serving as a highly coveted luxury export ware for Western markets. The hand-incised uppercase China mark on the underside of these bases, paired with the remnants of original paper stamps, places this set firmly within this historic export window. The inclusion of the pierced Fu symbol integrated into the brass sleeves reflects traditional Chinese glassmaker blessings of wealth and longevity, making this service a true artifact of cultural craftsmanship.

Specifications and Dimensions
Quantity: 14 pieces total
Composition: 8 cups and 6 saucers
Materials: Cased Peking glass and brass
Cup Dimensions: 4.25 inches wide by 2.25 inches high
Markings: Incised CHINA on glass bases

Condition Report
This antique glass service is in excellent condition. The cased glass liners remain pristine and entirely free of chips, cracks, flea bites, or structural fracturing along the delicate flared rims. The removable brass holders retain a dark, authentic, unpolished vintage patina with natural surface oxidation and age-earned character.

Designers Note
This vibrant periwinkle blue set is an absolute dream for interior designers looking to ground a dining room sideboard or bar cart with authentic Chinoiserie appeal. The intense color profile coordinates beautifully with modern Hollywood Regency decor, while the unpolished historic brass details appeal directly to Grandmillennial styling trends. Because the brass frames lift away entirely from the glass bodies, this set offers both structural elegance and modern practicality for occasional entertaining.

Acquiring a multi-piece Peking glass set in this configuration and condition is a rare opportunity for serious collectors of Asian art glass. Whether displayed prominently in a traditional lit china cabinet or utilized as a luxurious turnkey espresso service, these pieces promise to bring timeless elegance and a touch of history to your home. See less