A French Glass Spittoon c1895

Description

Heading : French glass spittoon
Date : 1880-1910
Origin : France
Colour : Amber and blue
Body : Optical moulding with a flared rim decorated with applied blue trailing
Pontil : Polished
Glass Type : Lead
Size : 12.8cm tall and approximately 22.8cm in diameter
Condition : Excellent. no chips or cracks
Restoration : None
Weight : 803 grams

Spitting was socially acceptable in Britain until the mid 19th century but remained so in France for considerably longer. Spittoons were still commonplace in the bars and cafes and brothels of Paris when Orwell was investigating “Down and out…”. In the 19th century tuberculosis was seen as a romantic disease. one that woud consume artists and the intelligensia. perhaps spittoons were a means of spreading the charms of a slow and lingering demise.

We have long advocated that antique glass should be used. On this occasion we have changed our minds. It certainly is a talking point. I wonder hoow long this would take to fill at Old Trafford ? If anyone can give us a rational and amusing answer then it will be published