A Belle Époque Glass Vanity Tray

An exquisite glass dressing table tray of substantial gauge, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. This piece is a quintessential example of Edwardian-era functional luxury, designed with a sophisticated silhouette that captures the transition from Victorian decorative arts to the cleaner lines of the early 20th century. Its generous proportions make it an ideal "stage" for a collection of scent bottles, silver-topped jars, or jewellery.

During the late 19th century, the "toilette" was an elaborate ritual. A tray of this quality would have been the centerpiece of a larger set, protecting the polished mahogany or satinwood of a lady's dressing table from the alcohol found in early perfumes and "toilet waters."

The glass from this period is noted for its high lead content, which provides a distinctive "ring" when tapped and a superior refractive index. Whether featuring a star-cut base (to hide scratches from the bottles it held) or an optics-moulded rim, the piece reflects the industrial mastery of the Great Glass Houses of the era, such as Baccarat, Webb, or Saint-Louis.

Dealer’s Comments

"There is a dignified 'weight' to glass from this period that modern equivalents simply fail to achieve. I particularly appreciate the soft, 'water-like' undulations often found in late 19th-century glass; it has a soul and a hand-finished quality that feels immensely tactile. In a contemporary setting, this tray is a brilliant way to add a layer of historical 'anchor' to a modern bathroom or bedroom. It elevates the mundane—turning a few perfume bottles into a shimmering, architectural display."

Condition Report

The tray is in good antique condition for its age. The glass retains its original clarity with no signs of "sick" or cloudy glass. As is correct for a piece of this vintage, there is light, honest "shelf-wear" to the underside of the base, confirming its history. There are no significant chips, cracks, or restorations to the rim or surface.

Measurement

Height:            3.5 cm /     1.4 inch

Width:             29 cm /      11.4 inch

Depth:             27 cm /       10.6 inch

Weight:           0.8 k.g. /     1.8 lbs