Pale Green Opaline Glass Pot with Gold Finish and Floral Decor

Period: ca. 2nd half 19th century a pale green opaline glass cylindrical jar with a hinged lid. The edges of the pot and lid are embellished with gilded metal bands that have a fine frieze of acanthus leaves; this metal fitting is of very good quality and in keeping with the fact that it is an old french piece from the 1850s-70s. The pot is also decorated with friezes of painted leaves and a flower on the lid. This piece glows under uv light and is therefore considered uranium glass. Opaline glass is a semi-crystal glass, whose translucency is produced by the addition of tin phosphates and bone or ash. Opaline glass was made almost exclusively in france in the 19th century. Italy resumed production of opaline products from the mid-20th century; these were generally of lower quality. Condition: good. The glass is perfect. Dimensions: 9.3 cm in height, 5.8 cm in diameter, 280 g.