The aperitif is a longstanding French tradition - a petit shot of liqueur or cognac/brandy ahead of dinner, as a way to "enliven the taste buds", and then after or with dessert. Napoleon III era exploded with whimsical sets like this one - you're more used to the Blackamoor or mule/donkey, or camels, animals. But I 3 decades of buying and selling, I have never seen one like this female figural set. Quite unique, both the form and the electric blue glass. Likely Legras glass, floral impasto enamel work on all pieces. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good condition for age and type. Napoleon III era (c.1850-70). The barrel is perfect (no hairlines, cracks, chips) but has a cork rather than what would have been a clear glass (likely) stopper, and the handle of the little spigot is missing. While the 6 cups are original to the set, I've noted that 1 has a 3/8" hairline on the cup near the handle's top, and 1 has a more expanded hairline. Neither are broken, and I think glass glue may have been run to the hairlines since they're holding tight. One might watch for a replacement or two when next in Paris, but for display, it's just charming.
