Cordial glass c. 1870

Here we see an elaborate cordial glass set, created by an anonymous artist, and made of wood, glass, and metal. The dark, polished wood of the case creates a sense of enclosure, a container for the delicate glassware within. Notice how the arrangement of the glasses and decanters within the box mimics a kind of architectural structure, almost like a miniature cityscape. The mirrored base reflects and multiplies these forms, creating a sense of depth and complexity. The artist has carefully considered the interplay of materials here. The hard, reflective surfaces of the glass and metal contrast with the warm, organic texture of the wood. This contrast engages with a broader artistic and philosophical concern. The set invites us to consider the relationship between interior and exterior, concealment and display. The box functions as a kind of stage, framing the objects within and inviting us to contemplate their beauty and function.