1880s Magnificent Moser Cranberry Glass Imperial Egg-Form Tantalus Service

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Magnificent Moser Cranberry Glass Imperial Egg-Form Tantalus Service, 1880s

An extraordinary example of late 19th-century Bohemian luxury glass, this monumental … Read more Magnificent Moser Cranberry Glass Imperial Egg-Form Tantalus Service, 1880s

An extraordinary example of late 19th-century Bohemian luxury glass, this monumental cranberry glass tantalus is conceived in the form of a jeweled egg, combining exceptional craftsmanship with an element of theatrical surprise. Closed, the object presents as a richly ornamented decorative treasure; when opened, the hinged egg reveals a complete cordial service consisting of a matching decanter and eight miniature cordial glasses arranged within a fitted interior.

Executed in luminous cranberry glass, one of the most costly and technically demanding glass colors of the period, the surface is profusely embellished with hand-painted enamels, gilding, and intricate decorative motifs. The vibrant palette of cobalt blue, white, yellow, lavender, emerald green, and burnished gold creates a dazzling contrast against the jewel-like ruby ground. Floral garlands, stylized blossoms, pendant bell flowers, and delicate beaded ornaments encircle the body, while the interior lid displays a striking radiating starburst medallion surrounded by richly detailed foliate decoration.

The dramatic egg form reflects the late Victorian fascination with luxury objects inspired by Imperial Russia. While unmistakably Bohemian in manufacture, the jewel-like coloration, radiating star motifs, and sculptural egg silhouette evoke the opulence associated with Russian decorative arts and the celebrated objets de fantaisie collected by Europe's aristocracy during the Belle Époque.

Adding further distinction are the finely cast gilt-bronze mounts, including two elegant dangling handles, a mascaron clasp, and an elaborate tripod base of scrolling Rococo-inspired feet. The removable matching decanter, beautifully decorated with floral enameling and gilded accents, is accompanied by eight matching cordial glasses, creating a complete and highly decorative service intended for the presentation of fine liqueurs.

Today, the piece stands equally as a functional serving object and a remarkable cabinet display, embodying the technical virtuosity and artistic imagination that made Bohemian glass among the most sought-after luxury goods of the late nineteenth century.

Dimensions
Egg-form tantalus: 13 in. H × 8 in. Diameter
Base: 7 in. Diameter
Decanter: 7 in. H × 4 in. Diameter
Eight cordial glasses: 1.5 in. H × 1 in. Diameter

Condition: One cordial glass with a small chip. Otherwise, presenting beautifully with age-appropriate wear. An exceptionally rare and visually striking example of enameled cranberry glass, likely produced for the highest levels of the European luxury market. See less