The Dignity of an Unmarked Era - Old Baccarat Water Glass (Pre-1936)

Beautifully crafted for its purpose,
this single glass was the centerpiece of the dining table.

Product Description:
This is an Old Baccarat water glass, believed to have been manufactured before 1936. Baccarat products from this era typically do not bear brand markings, and this piece is no exception. However, the clear crystal quality, well-balanced proportions, and the soft cut decoration at the base clearly reflect the distinctive aesthetic of Old Baccarat. This particular glass is the "water glass" from a service set that also includes a wine glass, champagne glass, and sherry glass. Its imposing height of approximately 19cm indicates its central role on the dining table. Water is the most frequently consumed beverage, and its vessel was required to combine both practicality and formality. This glass perfectly meets that requirement. Currently sold individually, it can be combined with other glasses from the same series to recreate the table settings of aristocracy and upper-class families from before the 1930s. Since other glasses will also be sold individually, the joy of gradually collecting them is a unique charm of Old Baccarat. (R080184)

Specifications:
・Brand: Baccarat
・Era: Before 1936 (no mark)
・Type: Water glass
・Height: Approximately 19 cm
・Material: Crystal glass
・Condition: Good as an antique item
　(no noticeable chips or cracks / minor scuffs due to age)
・Sales format: Individual sale

Recommended Points:
・"Oldest Baccarat style" without markings
　Crystal from an era when it was valued for its perfection, not for brand display.
・Water glass at the core of the set
　The largest and most important role, determining the formality of the dining table.
・Soft glow of old crystal
　A quiet, deep reflection of light not found in modern pieces.
・Presence that stands alone
　Just one piece adds the dignity of an antique to any space.
・A story completed by combination
　Pairing with wine, champagne, and sherry glasses revives an authentic service set from that era.

Special Notes:
At the dining tables of the upper class (aristocracy), water was not simply "well water to be drunk as is." In 18th-19th century Europe, well water, river water, and rainwater were, by modern standards, highly unsanitary. Drinking "plain water" itself was a risk. At aristocratic tables, "water" most commonly referred to diluted wine (wine + water). Wine was diluted with water to lower its alcohol content. This also served as a means of preservation and sterilization. This practice was particularly common for children, women, and during daytime meals. Among the aristocracy, water was often served with added fragrance or flavor. Lemon water, water with orange peel, herbs (mint, rosemary), rosewater, orange blossom water, etc., were not "just water" but a matter of taste and an expression of refinement. This is one reason why water glasses were large and beautiful. Especially in 18th-century France, sugar water and honey water were widely consumed. Since sugar was a luxury item and a symbol of wealth, sweet water was a privilege of the nobility. Therefore, the water glass needed to be a "luxurious vessel." The water glass was not merely for water; it was the most frequently used vessel, remaining on the table from the beginning to the end of the meal. In other words, it was a vessel that conveyed the "formality of the dining table" rather than just the "contents of the drink." That is why it was made to be the largest, most stable, and most beautiful.

*Based on AI research.