Decanters

With a history that dates far back into the ancient world, glass decanters are a symbol of elegant entertaining. From cut crystal to cameo glass, glass decanters all share a remarkable history.

Though prototypes of the glass decanter were prominent in the cultures of the ancient Mediterranean, the creation of decanters grew exponentially in popularity during the long medieval age. It was during this point in history that the prevalence of alcoholic drinks combined with the rising presence and wealth of the upper class resulted in an increased demand for the decanter.

Further fueled by the growth of the Venetian glassblowing industry, the glass decanter was a standard form among elite households by the 17th century. They were equally compelling for their decorative qualities. Glass decanters evolved from functional to fantastically beautiful art objects, a quality for which they are still coveted today.

Quick Facts

• Some antique decanters were tailored to echo their eventual contents. Claret decanters were designed with a wide mouth, for example, to eliminate the need for a funnel. Others, aiming for colorful contents such as red Campari, were crafted in clear glass so that the bartender could easily identify the vessel's contents by color. Though some antique colored cut glass exists, it is more rare than its clear counterparts
• Some of the most prominent creators of glass decanters include: Baccarat, Gallé, Lalique, Tiffany, and Steuben
• One of the oldest surviving Waterford crystal decanters dates to 1789. Of the Penrose design, named after Waterford's founder and identifiable by its neck featuring three rings, the decanter is cut in a rich variety of tantalizing trefoil patterns