Victorian Silver-Mounted Glass Three-Handled Decanter from John Grinsell & Sons, 1897

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Three applied glass loop handles arch symmetrically around the neck and rounded shoulders of this clear-glass decanter, creating a balanced, … Read more Three applied glass loop handles arch symmetrically around the neck and rounded shoulders of this clear-glass decanter, creating a balanced, tripod-like silhouette reminiscent of ancient amphora vessels. The body is free-blown with a compressed globular lower section that transitions into a wide, stable base, terminating underneath in a polished pontil mark. The thick, transparent glass catches and refracts ambient light, displaying gentle natural undulations typical of late nineteenth-century mouth-blown tableware. Fitted to the plain neck is a cylindrical sterling silver collar made by John Grinsell & Sons, fully hallmarked for London in 1897 and bearing the stamped production number 16152. Known primarily for their high-quality table silver, cocktail shakers and luxury mounted glassware, Grinsell & Sons frequently supplied plain, functional silver mounts that complemented transitional Arts and Crafts domestic forms. The clean, unembellished cylinder of the collar sits securely against an integral glass ring just below the rim. The decanter retains its original matched stopper, composed of a ground glass peg surmounted by a hollow, mushroom-form sterling silver cap. When seated, the domed metal top mirrors the proportions of the silver collar beneath it, providing a firm grip when pouring. with a capacity suited to table wine or fortified spirits, the tri-handled arrangement permits easy handling and pouring from any angle. Standing 23 cm high to the top of the finial and measuring 12 cm across its widest point, the decanter remains in excellent, undamaged condition. The clear vessel exhibits no clouding, chips, or fractures, while the London silver collar and stopper mount display only light surface handling wear commensurate with age. See less