Miniature cranberry glass punch cup, c.1890

This diminutive hand-blown ribbed cranberry glass punch cup has an applied clear glass handle and polished bottom. I purchased it about a year ago from a dealer in the UK who thought it was made in Bohemia around the turn of the 19th century. Standing just a mere 1-1/2″ tall, it is one of the smallest examples in my collection. It would have been a part of a larger set, including a punch bowl, ladle and up to 12 matching cups. After this cup broke, a tinker very carefully bore eight minute holes through the sides of the glass, using a drill bit covered in diamond dust, and attached four 1/4″ long metal staples. These are some of the smallest staples I have ever seen. It must have taken nimble hands and years of experience to repair this tiny gem.

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This elaborate cranberry glass punch set with gilt decoration, made by Moser, would originally have had a dozen matching cups and an undertray.

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Photo courtesy of Live Auctioneers

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6 Responses to “Miniature cranberry glass punch cup, c.1890”

  1. Diane says:

    Just adorable! I especially enjoy the staple repairs. And a tiny one, couldn’t be better!

  2. CarolR says:

    Wow! So tiny and beautiful! I love the staples, too.

  3. Larry Terricone says:

    Now that is a work of art. Does anyone do that kind of work today?

  4. imogen88 says:

    Gosh, that is just gorgeous. I always am amazed people see these things were worth repairing and it only adds to their charm to have them in the world now.

  5. sheila staddon says:

    hi just found your site and it’s very interesting! I’ve recently acquired a couple of pieces of porcelain with the staple repair, and wondered if you have any information regarding when they stopped doing this? neither of my pieces have makers marks so I cannot identify them the usual way thanks

  6. Mike Signy says:

    Harrods in London were still employing two repairers to staple pottery and porcelain as late as 1960.

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