Elevate your table with this breathtaking late 19th-century Claret Jug—where Victorian engineering meets artistic opulence. This is more than a decanter; it is a centerpiece. Standing at a graceful 24cm, this jug captures the light through its pristine, wide-based glass body, designed specifically to allow fine wines to breathe while maintaining a stable, majestic presence on your sideboard. • Artistry in Metal: The silvered mount is a masterclass in relief work. The intricate grape and vine motif wraps around the glass neck like a trellis, providing a stunning tactile experience every time you pour. • The 'Grand Gesture' Handle: The oversized, ornate handle is not just for show—its ergonomic sweep and floral thumb-rest ensure a perfectly balanced pour, making the service of wine an act of theater. • Vintage Character: The gentle patina on the metal and the classic Victorian "Historismus" styling offer an authentic sense of history that modern glasswork simply cannot replicate. • Versatile Elegance: While designed for claret, its classic silhouette makes it a sophisticated vessel for water, infused oils, or simply as a standalone sculptural element in a light-filled cabinet. Invest in a piece of the past that remains perfectly suited for the modern host. A rare find for those who value craftsmanship, history, and the art of the pour. Item Specifications • Object Type: Claret Jug / Wine Decanter. • Material: Blown glass body with a silver-plated or white-metal decorative mount. • Dimensions: Approximately 24cm in height with a base diameter of 12cm. • Age/Period: Late 19th Century (Victorian/Belle Époque era), likely circa 1880–1900. • Style/Provenance: Likely of Continental European origin (German or Austro-Hungarian), judging by the heavy, ornate "Historismus" style of the metalwork. The Motif & Design The mount features a high-relief, pierced (open-work) design of cascading grapevines and heavy fruit clusters, a traditional "Bacchus" theme symbolizing abundance and the wine within. The handle is a particular highlight: • Form: A sweeping, stylized "S-scroll" or "Whiplash" curve. • Detailing: It is adorned with floral rosettes at the shoulder and intricate acanthus leaf carvings that taper down to a decorative terminal. • Mechanics: It features a hinged, dome-shaped lid with a thumb-piece for easy, one-handed pouring. Note: Many of my items are vintage and are therefore likely to show some age-related wear. This can include things such as: scratches, discolouration, repairs etc. Please be sure to look through each photograph carefully and read the description fully, to get an idea of condition. Please note that currently postage may take longer than one month to some countries. Photographs are part of description.