SOLD – Georgian Coaching Glass c1800

Description

We have a superb Georgian Coaching Glass which dates to around 1800.

An unusual Boot shaped example ! These were used at coaching houses and were stored rim down. It is held as demonstrated in our last picture and it “fits like a glove” if you will pardon the pun. This is a particularly good example. English lead. no chips cracks or restoration. it needs a rinse with water to clean the last 200 years of grime from inside the base and toe if you like your glass in pristine condition. It measures 4 ¾ inches tall.

Coaching glasses were first produced in the latter decades of the eighteenth century. As the name suggests. they were used at coaching houses. or staging inns if you prefer that were situated at regular intervals along major routes. By the late 18th century. stagecoaches and Mail coaches in particular. ran with significantly increased average speed. reliability and efficiency. The changing of horses had been refined to an exact science and was typically accomplished within three to five minutes of arrival. With such short stopping times it became increasingly difficult for the passengers to take advantage of drinks and vittles on offer . Thus Innkeepers. not wishing to loose this valuable passing trade would send beverages out to the coach. Coaching glasses were brought out on a large tray. brim down. since these glasses rarely had a foot. only a glass knob or ball at the base of the stem to grasp. The glasses were handed around to the passengers wishing to partake in refreshments. at a cost. The passengers held the glass whilst it was filled by an attendant “boy” or “wench”. The beverage was downed and the glass returned to the tray. again brim down. Coaching glasses could not be set down inside a carriage as they were highly unstable at best or more usually had no foot at all . thus increasing the likelihood that they would be returned after its contents were consumed. This “Boot” was intended for the well “heeled”to use on their travels and with such a pedigree this glass really does have a “sole”.