Box - hyalite - Hyaliet

Great Antique Hyalite Glass Presentation Box with Tin Fittings – Bohemia, 19th Century
Rare very dark black 'Casket' of hyalite glass with a cherry-red glow and detailed baroque tin fittings.
Description: A rare and very imposing antique presentation box (casket/jewelry chest) made from authentic black hyalite glass (Hyalith), manufactured in Central Europe (Bohemia) in the 19th century (circa 1830–1880).
This splendid showpiece stands out for its exceptionally large, monumental size and heavy quality.
The lid and the base are adorned around with detailed metal baroque fittings (tin/pewter) featuring acanthus leaves and volutes motifs.
The pewter decoration on both the top and the base is applied through a high-quality electrolytic deposition (Pewter Overlay).
Authenticity feature (The Hyalite Test): When light is shone against the base with a strong light source, the glass shows the unique and unmistakable deep cherry-red glow (cherry red translucence), the definitive proof of 19th-century hyalite glass. The thick, heavy lid is completely opaque.
The bottom is fully smoothly finished without a pontil mark, indicating high-quality casting or pressing glass technique in a mold, or a skillfully smoothed and polished finish.
A stunning and rare collector’s item for enthusiasts of antique European glass.
Specifications & Features
Object: Large presentation box / Jewelry chest / Casket
Material: Black hyalite glass (Hyalith) and tin fittings (pewter)
Period: 19th Century (circa 1830–1880)
Origin: Central Europe (Bohemia / Germany)
Style: Baroque / Rococo revival (Neobaroque)
Dimensions: 25 x 25 x 9 cm
Weight: 1172 grams
Condition: In good antique condition for its age (see photos for a precise personal impression of the glass and the patina of the metal).
Carefully packed and insured shipping."