Any fine French home of the 19th century would provide for inhabitants and also for guests, a decanter of fresh water or wine for the night, at bedside table. By later 1800s these "topper-up" style sets would also have an insert or a 2nd small decanter for libation or liqueur, but the earlier ones were just as you see this one: under tray, or platter, saucer, and the decanter and then the glass. The glass (timbale as they call them in France) was always up-turned and used to cover the decanter against dust, insects, evaporation (if alcohol). It's not too rare to find a decanter and under plate, but rare to find the entire set, unbroken and still together like this one. We'd estimate this one to be c.1830-50, but it could be earlier. Fabulous for your own use, or for a guest room, and gorgeous in your lighted vitrine along with other fine old opaline items, eggs, boxes.
Excellent Condition. There are no chips or cracks to any of the three pieces, possibly a tiny edge nip or two but nothing more. Some wear/loss to the gold enamel accenting. See images for all measurements.
