Decorative

RARE GEORGIAN MINIATURE GLASS PATCH STAND C.1740 ...

A rare and well-preserved example of GEORGIAN from c.1740 (Georgian / George II), noted for its craftsmanship, material quality, and historical relevance.

A Rare Miniature Masterpiece\nAn exceptional Georgian miniature glass patch stand (tazza), dating to circa 1740. Standing at a diminutive 5.5cm, this is a premier ''cabinet piece.'' While full-sized tazzas are highly collectible, finding a miniature of this complexity---featuring both a triple-knop stem and a terraced base---is a significant rarity for the specialist glass collector.\n\nExquisite Craftsmanship\nThe Top: A shallow circular pan with a thick, galleried (upturned) rim.\nThe Stem: A sophisticated triple-knop arrangement, showcasing the fine hand-tooling and light refraction typical of mid-18th-century flint glass.\nThe Foot: A distinctive flat, terraced (stepped) foot. This architectural ''stepped'' design was a labour-intensive feature that adds immense character and stability to the piece.\nAuthenticity: The underside features a sharp, snapped pontil mark, confirming its pre-...industrial, hand-blown origin.\n\nHistorical Context\nThese miniature stands were the height of fashion on George II-era dressing tables. They were used to hold ''patches''---small shapes of black silk or velvet used by the elite to accentuate the complexion or hide scars. Survival of such a delicate, small-scale item is remarkable.\n\nCondition Report: Very Good. The glass remains bright and clear with excellent lustre. No chips, cracks, or restorations. It displays the characteristic ''seeds'' (tiny air bubbles) and light striations that are the hallmarks of authentic 1740s lead glass.

— Details

Reference

SA1206808

Origin

c.1740 (Georgian / George II)

Period

GEORGIAN

Dimensions

H 5.5cm

Rarity

Significant rarity

Provenance

The G S. May Esquire Private Collection, London

Condition

Excellent — see description