Saint Louis Cologne Bottles

These exquisite Saint Louis Cologne Bottles, crafted around 1910, originate from France, a nation renowned for its glassmaking artistry. The pair showcases the intricate design features hallmark of the Saint Louis glassworks, with gilded "Palmettes" adorning the exterior. These bottles, with their elegant form and decorative motifs, exemplify the delicate craftsmanship and attention to detail that Saint Louis is celebrated for. Their historical significance is evident in the way they blend both functionality and artistry, making them a standout piece for any collection.

Condition Report

The Saint Louis Cologne Bottles are in very good condition, reflecting minimal signs of age and wear. The gilded "Palmettes" are well-preserved, with only slight wear that is consistent with items over a century old. The clarity of the glass remains uncompromised, with no significant chips or cracks visible. The stoppers fit securely, maintaining their integrity and functionality. These bottles have been carefully preserved, ensuring that they retain their original charm and utility. The condition aligns with expectations for a pair of early 20th-century decorative bottles, offering both historical authenticity and aesthetic appeal.

Dimensions

Weight: 173gm & 191gm, Length: 5cm, Width: 15cm, Height: 13cm with stopper 17cm.

Decorative Art for the Vanity

Originally, these Saint Louis Cologne Bottles were designed to serve as elegant vessels for storing cologne, a staple of personal grooming in the early 20th century. The bottles would have been placed prominently on a vanity or dressing table, both to store fragrance and to enhance the decor of the room. Their ornate design signifies an era when such items were considered both practical and decorative, reflecting the personal style and status of the owner. Today, they can still be appreciated for their dual functionality and decorative charm.

Early 20th Century French Design

This pair of cologne bottles is a fine example of early 20th-century French design, combining artistic flair with practical usage. The use of gilded "Palmettes" is indicative of the decorative trends prevalent at the time, where opulence and intricate detail were highly valued. The design reflects the transition from the ornate styles of the 19th century to the more streamlined forms that would come to dominate later in the 20th century. This style is appreciated by collectors for its historical context and its role in the evolution of design aesthetics.

The Craft of Gilded Glassware

The creation of these Saint Louis bottles involved the meticulous craft of glassblowing, followed by the application of gilded "Palmettes," a process requiring both skill and precision. The glass would have been shaped while hot, with the gilding added once the piece was cooled. This technique highlights the expertise of the craftsmen, who could balance the delicate nature of glass with the decorative requirements of the gilding. The result is a pair of bottles that not only serve a functional purpose but also exhibit the artistry of their makers.

Created by Saint Louis Glassworks

Founded in 1586, Saint Louis Glassworks is renowned for its high-quality crystal glassware. By the early 1900s, when these bottles were made, Saint Louis had established a reputation for innovative designs and superior craftsmanship. The glassworks was particularly noted for its use of rich decorative elements, such as the gilded "Palmettes" seen on these bottles. Collectors and enthusiasts of glassware hold Saint Louis pieces in high esteem, recognising their contribution to the art of glassmaking.

Collected by Glassware Enthusiasts

These Saint Louis Cologne Bottles are coveted by collectors of fine glassware for their historical significance and craftsmanship. Such pieces are appreciated not only for their beauty but also for their place in the narrative of glassmaking history. Collectors are drawn to the unique blend of utility and artistry, seeking out pieces that reflect the innovation and design sensibilities of their era. This pair, with its elegant design and well-preserved condition, represents a valuable addition to any collection focused on early 20th-century decorative arts.