Topazio Silver-Plated Covered Cut-Glass Trinket Jar with Scroll Decoration

Circular cut-glass jar with a separate silver-plated cover.
Deep geometric cutting decorates the clear glass body.
The cover has raised scrollwork and a beaded border.
A plain shield-shaped reserve forms the centre of the design.
The rim bears the name Topazio and additional stamped marks.

Approximate dimensions

Height: 85 mm (3.3")
Diameter: 95 mm (3.7")

Condition

The silver-plated cover has areas of tarnish and discolouration, particularly around the rim, and may be polished if preferred. The dark underside lining has scattered pale surface marks.

Description

A circular covered dressing-table or trinket jar comprising a clear cut-glass body and a separate silver-plated metal cover.

The thick-walled glass body has gently tapering sides and a substantial circular base. Its exterior is decorated with deeply cut geometric motifs formed from pointed leaves, diamonds and intersecting lines. A radiating starburst is cut into the underside of the base.

The shallow domed cover has a continuous beaded border. Its upper surface combines finely textured areas with raised and polished decoration. Four large inward-curving foliate scrolls surround a plain shield-shaped central reserve. Smaller shell, leaf and bud-like motifs appear above and below the reserve.

The underside of the cover contains a flat, dark-coloured circular lining. The cover is removable and sits over the upper rim of the glass body.

The outer edge is stamped “TOPAZIO” above “SILVERPLATED”. Adjacent rectangular marks contain the letter “T”, a crown-like device and the letter “G”. These markings and the decorative treatment suggest Portuguese production.

Covered glass jars of this type were commonly made during the twentieth century for use on dressing tables, where they could hold powder, jewellery or other small personal articles. The jar could also be used for trinkets or small accessories.

Object Type: Trinket jar
Age: Post-1940
Era / Period: Mid- to late 20th century
Material: Cut glass
Finish: Silver plated
Production Technique: Cut glass and pressed metal
Decoration Technique: Geometric cutting and raised relief
Style: Rococo revival

Trinket Jar Silver Plated Topazio Cut Glass Dressing Table Pot Portuguese