Mercury Glass actually contains no Mercury; it is so-called for its appearance of silver under glass. It is double-hulled, blown glass with a solution of silver nitrate coating the interior.
These large vases were made in Bohemia in the latter part of the 19th century. They are hand painted with a yellow and red bird above red and yellow enamel roses with dark green leaves. They have a classic baluster shape with a flared trumpet neck. The ribbing appears to be on the inside of the glass, as the outside is smooth, except for the interior of the trumpet rim, where the ribbing can be felt .
There were once bands of black and yellow enamel encircling the vases. These bands have almost disappeared. Remnants of black enamel bands are on the trumpet tops.
Beautiful and lustrous in appearance!
Height: 12 inches.
Base Diameter: 4 ¼ inches.
Top Diameter: 4 ½ inches.
Although unmarked, the Bohemian origin is conveyed by the feather-light weight of the glass. American Mercury Glass was made of flint glass, which is fairly heavy. English Mercury Glass was made of leaded glass, which was heavier still.
These vases are in good condition, with no chips or cracks. The seals covering the pontils are missing. The silvered lining has eroded considerably; although the vases are still lustrous in appearance, when held up to the light, translucency is obvious. One vase is more translucent than the other. Much of the painted enamel decorations are worn off. There is a glass protrusion or knob on the interior top surface of one of the trumpet rims.

This would be a fine addition to your art glass collection!
Please ask any questions prior to offering to purchase.
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Antique Glass
Antique Art Glass