Description
This late Victorian olive-black glass beverage bottle dates to approximately c.1880–1900 and is a strong example of utilitarian bottle-making from the period.
The bottle is made from extremely dark olive-green glass, appearing almost black in normal light but revealing its rich olive tone when held against strong light. Its substantial hand-finished neck, heavy glass construction and deeply pushed-up base are characteristic of late 19th-century manufacture.
A particularly interesting feature is the surviving period wire around the neck, believed to form part of the original cork-retaining closure arrangement. This surviving hardware gives the bottle additional historical and display interest and provides direct evidence of how such bottles were once sealed before later closure systems became standard.
Areas of old compacted soil or mineral accretion remain around the neck and beneath the wire. These deposits are consistent with possible historical burial or ground recovery, although the bottle’s earlier provenance is unknown. They have intentionally been left largely undisturbed in order to preserve the bottle’s authentic aged character.
The bottle was most likely originally used for wine, beer, ale or another bottled beverage requiring a cork closure.
Date: c.1880–1900
Period: Late Victorian
Material: Glass
Colour: Very dark olive green / olive-black
Closure: Surviving wire cork-retaining arrangement
Country of Origin:** Unknown
Condition
A characterful and increasingly scarce piece of late Victorian glass, ideal for collectors of antique bottles, historical glassware, breweriana and utilitarian wares.Antique condition consistent with age and use. No cracks or major chips are visible on inspection. The bottle shows surface wear, scratches, manufacturing irregularities and old mineral/soil deposits, particularly around the neck and wire closure. Any small surface anomalies visible in the glass are smooth to the touch and appear consistent with original manufacture or long-term age rather than recent damage. The surviving wire shows age-related oxidation and has been left untouched. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
Size:
26.5cm x 9cm x 9cm
Weight: 728gm
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About TMC Emporium
TMC Emporium offers an evolving collection of vintage, collectable and decorative items sourced throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. Each item is individually photographed and described, with care taken to accurately represent its condition.
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