I love vintage glassware. And when I hunt for glasses, I keep a few parameters in-mind. Simplicity is key: embellishment must be handsome and understated. Sets must have at least six glasses (except when I find exceptional sets of four—and I can't manage to walk away). Age-appropriate condition is important. And the elusive (hard to define) "handfeel" makes all the difference in the world. I do not get precious about only acquiring "high-end" glassware (that is, glasses which were expensive on the day they were first sold). I am happy to pick-up more common, "middle-class" glassware—as long as it fulfills the other requirements, stated above.
The nicest thing about these glasses, shown above, is, indeed, their handfeel. Twelve Modernist tumblers—six for water, six for wine—are punctuated with platinum rim banding. Such metalwork is not only handsome, it also is protective of the delicate glass rims. But the platinum (or, in some instances, gold) was not made to withstand the extreme heat and vigor of modern dishwashers (so hand washing is recommended).
Click on the photo above to learn more about these very nice glasses.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248