Schnapps glass (one of twelve)

Art Historical Context

This delicate schnapps glass, one of a set of twelve, hails from Nuremberg, Germany, during the mid-18th century (1750–75). Crafted from glass and adorned with vibrant enamel, it measures just 1 9/16 × 1 1/4 inches, perfectly sized for sipping strong spirits like schnapps—a popular distilled liquor in European drinking culture. Nuremberg was a renowned hub for glassmaking, where artisans excelled in producing luxurious tableware for affluent households. The enamel technique shines here: powdered glass colors are painted onto the surface and fired at high temperatures, fusing them permanently into intricate designs. This piece likely features charming motifs of men and women in period attire, graceful swans, and blooming flowers—hallmarks of Rococo exuberance, blending human figures with nature for a whimsical, festive vibe. Such sets of twelve glasses were essential for elegant dinners, symbolizing hospitality and refinement. On view in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department (acquired via the Munsey Fund in 1927), this tiny treasure reveals the technical virtuosity and cultural flair of 18th-century German craftsmanship, inviting us to toast to its enduring sparkle.