Powder Boxes

Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo

Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo

Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo
This stunning antique vanity jar, trinket box, or soap dish from the second half of the victorian era is a remarkable example of craftsmanship. Made from heavy, clear, cut leaded crystal, the jar is intricately cut with a fluted pattern that runs from top to bottom.

The rectangular base is flat, fire-polished, and beautifully clear, allowing light to enhance the depth of the cuts. Measuring 1.5 inches tall, 4.5 inches long, and 3 inches wide, this elegant piece is both functional and decorative.

The lid of the jar is crafted from brass, which was once electroplated with nickel. Over time, much of the nickel finish has worn off, leaving behind the brass, with traces of the silvery plating still visible on the underside. The top of the lid features a charming repousse rococo floral pattern, a hallmark of the period's ornate design. The jar's practical design is evident in the two notches on the crystal at the top, allowing for the evaporation of residual water, keeping the interior drysuggesting that it was originally intended for use as a soap holder or sponge case. Despite some minor signs of age, such as small flea bites on the points and corners of the glass, the jar remains in excellent condition with no major cracks or chips. The brass lid is in good condition, showing only the expected wear from the loss of the nickel plating. The glass itself has exceptional clarity, though it is difficult to capture its true beauty in photographs. The "as" stands for "alpacca silber, " indicating that the lid was electroplated with an antique silver finish. This finish intentionally darkens the surface, giving the metal a rich, tarnished appearance reminiscent of antique silver. The "i/o" fraction indicates the standard thickness of silver plating used by wmf, which was typically one gram of silver over one square decimeter, a hallmark of the company's high-quality work. These marks, while small and somewhat worn from age, are still visible on the lid, reflecting the fine craftsmanship of the period.

Wmf, founded in 1853, is known for its high-quality metalware, and this piece exemplifies their expertise in creating both functional and aesthetically pleasing items. Though not found on every piece in the set, the "antler" mark, derived from the wurtemberg coat of arms, is a unique and distinctive feature that adds historical intrigue to this already special collection. This item is made of crystal, nickel silver and brass.


Antique WMF Vanity Jar Victorian Cut Crystal 1880s Brass Lid Soap Dish Trinket Box Rococo