Stunning antique Art Nouveau French sterling silver and acid etched cameo glass traveling `spirits' liquor flask by Daum Nancy cristalleries founded in Lorraine. Quite stunning. Featuring a cameo glass tapered body in a gorgeous vibrant green color receding to clear. Decorated in raised relief with poppies in various stage of bloom, surrounded by stars on a textured background. Poppy flowers are highlighted with gilt painted accents. I have seen this poppy motif by Daum, typically in blue but not in this gorgeous green color. Signed to the base with a gilt signature: Daum Nancy with the cross of Lorraine (Crox de Loraine). Daum Freres developed many techniques that were incorporated into the production of there renown Art Nouveau pieces, combining cameo carving, enameling and acid etching. Mounted with sterling silver fittings, including a conical shaped lid, threaded collar and detachable tumbler/drinking cup at the base. The lid and tumbler are ornately decorated in high relief repousse, of outstanding craftsmanship and fine detail, mimicking the floral motif of the glass body with poppies and stylized leaves. Having a gilt vermeil interior to the screw-on lid and removable tumbler. Hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which depicts the head of the goddess Minerva with a number 1 beside her to denote a silver content of .950/1000 (95% pure silver and a higher grade of silver than .925 sterling.) Bearing maker's marks for Parisian silversmiths Lagriffoul & Laval, active from 1899, who commenced trade at 157 rue du Temple, Paris.In overall good condition with general wear. The lid with some indentions from use and age. No stopper or cork. Measures 6 1/4" in length.
While highly prized by perfume bottle collectors and often mistaken for a lay down scent or perfume bottle, these charming bottles were meant originally for serving liquor, herbal restoratives or absinthe. They could easily hold a substantial amount of one's favorite liquor, to be served in the detachable tumbler / drinking cup that sheathes the base. Ideal for a 'shot' of whiskey or flavored liqueur. These highly collectible flasks are sometimes known as carriage flasks, handy for short travel. And also referred to as Opera Flasks. Smaller than the usual hip flasks, their size and shape allow them to be easily and discretely stow-able in a vest pocket, or lady's evening bag / purse. Perfect for a night out at the theatre, opera or ballet. They were also used for 'spirits', tonic waters and flavored herbal remedies one could not be without, to help soothe migraines. A convenient accessory for allowing a lady or gentleman a suitable "restoratif" on a cold carriage journey or at a tedious social event.