Hyalite Glass Flacon

This fascinating Charles X-period “cathedral” flacon has the appearance of agate, but it is actually crafted of rare red hyalite glass. The sculpted vessel rests within a patinated and gilt bronze basilica-inspired stand decorated in an openwork, Gothic-style arcade, and it was retailed by the goldsmithing shop of Grandcher of Paris.

Hyalite glass was developed by Bohemian glassmaker Friedrich Egermann in the late 18th century in Haida; the artisen wanted to create glass that rivaled gemstones. He achieved this by applying a metal oxide to the surface of colorless glass in a process called “cementation,” which requires three firings and a high level of skill. Different oxides give the glass different colors, and the result impressively mimics the appearance of a semi-precious stone. 

Label on base reads "Grandcher, au Petit Dunkerque, rue de Richelieu No. 91, au coin de celle Menars, a Paris"

Circa 1830

2 3/4“ diameter x 11” high