Small drinking vessel

This drinking glass is one of three (2015.459.2-.4) graduated sizes of glasses made for a large luxury table service. In addition to the glasses, the Museum has a compote and a decanter from the same service (69.257, 2015.459.1a, b). Dating to the mid-19th century, the service represents a moment when dining patterns were evolving, and fine tables were set with a proliferation of glassware for different functions. A Gothic-style “H” is prominently engraved on each piece of glass. The service descended in the family of Johns Hopkins (1795–1873), prominent businessman, entrepreneur, abolitionist, and philanthropist of Baltimore, Maryland. Hopkins may have purchased the service for use in his country estate, Clifton, outside of Baltimore, which he extensively renovated into an Italianate mansion in 1858. It is known that he enjoyed entertaining there, welcoming family, friends and dignitaries, including the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). The glass is exceptionally well cut and designed, representing some of the best of independent glass cutting in the New York City area. The quality of the material is equally good, for which the Brooklyn Flint Glass Works was especially admired.