Finger bowl 1885 - 1900

This "Finger bowl" is a simple, clear glass bowl with intricate cut-glass designs, likely created between 1885 and 1900 by an anonymous artist. Currently housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, the small, delicate size of the bowl (6.7 × 11.7 cm) hints at its use for rinsing fingertips during a formal meal. The cut-glass technique adds a decorative touch while also enhancing the bowl's functionality by creating a textured surface. The piece embodies the aesthetics of Victorian-era glassware, characterized by elaborate patterns and a focus on craftsmanship.