A Truly Victorian "Glass" Act

This is just one "glass" act that stopped me in my tracks - literally! While exploring the many wonderful items on display at New England Antique Shows recent Antiques at Elm Bank event, I came across a delightful display of truly mysterious decorative treasures. Imagine if you can... these pieces appeared to be a cross between a chandelier, an oil lamp, and even an elaborate serving piece! Turns out these hand-blown table accessories are called "epergnes", (pronounced ep-pern) and were quite popular back in Victorian-era days. 

Check out this absolutely elegant antique epergne... have you ever seen anything else like it? This particular example was made in Staurbridge, England in the 1800 to 1910 time frame. Staurbridge is in the Birmingham area, and is historically known for glass production and artistry for the last 300+ years.  In the early 17th century "gentlemen glassmakers" from France came to the area as it was rich with coal, an essential element to fire their glassmaking furnaces.

This epergne is incredibly eye catching both from a size and detail perspective.  It is made from clear hand blown glass which is highlighted with cobalt blue glass on its rims.  This is some impressive focal point; the overall height is 21" and its base measures 10" in diameter. In terms of its details, the large flute is 16" tall; the 3 small flutes are 8" tall; the 3 hanging baskets are 6 1/2" tall; and the 3 branches measure 11" each.  

So just what is an epergne? By definition, an epergne is an ornately constructed and detailed, highly functional centerpiece.  "Epergne" is probably derived from the French word "épargne" meaning "saving", meaning that guests were spared the effort of passing dishes and items as many things were centralized via the epergne. From a historical perspective, epergnes debuted in the late 1600's as a functional item designed to act as a caddy for spices and condiments served at an important meal. In the mid 18th century, their role had shifted to that of the space-saving keeper of the dessert course.  And by the late 18th century, they started appearing with candle holders, lamps, and vases; from the 19th century onward their primary purpose became floral-centric and decorative as demonstrated by the lovely pink glass example above.

Traditional epergnes have a large central "bowl" or basket; the epergne's smaller functional elements are supported by decorative branches which are spaced symmetrically around the piece. Depending on the complexity of the epergne, there may be between two and seven branches on the piece. These turn of last century glass pieces - like this smaller pale and darker green example to the left - have a lovely, delicate, floral like feeling, like the curves of a daffodil or even a fuchsia!

I would like to thank Paula Gentempo, who surely sits at the head of the guest dinner table, for introducing us to these elegant epergnes. Paula owns PKG Antiques and Interiors of New Jersey and specializes in outstanding Victorian era items.  She shows her treasures at New England Antique Shows events throughout the year; make sure to attend the next one which is scheduled for October 16th from 10-5 and October 17th from 11-4!  For more information on the blue and clear glass epergne, which is $1800, or other period Victorian glassware, contact her directly at 908-782-7992 or pkge8@msn.com. 

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