Late 19th Century R. Boucher Swansea Aqua Glass Torpedo Bottle

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This listing is for a late 19th-century aqua glass mineral water bottle made for R. Boucher Mineral Water Works of … Read more This listing is for a late 19th-century aqua glass mineral water bottle made for R. Boucher Mineral Water Works of Swansea, Wales. This striking antique example features the classic pointed torpedo or Hamilton bottle form, a substantial blob-style lip, and extensive raised embossing.

The body is heavily decorated with the R. Boucher and Swansea names, Mineral Water Works lettering, and a prominent molded crown emblem. The pale aqua glass has numerous small bubbles and natural manufacturing irregularities characteristic of early bottle glass, giving the piece excellent depth and character.

Torpedo bottles were designed with rounded or pointed bases so they would be stored horizontally, helping keep the original cork closure moist and maintain pressure in carbonated mineral water. This example was likely mouth-blown into a mold and hand-finished at the neck.

A beautiful piece of late Victorian commercial glass with strong decorative presence as well as genuine appeal to antique bottle collectors. See less