Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Georgian Engraved Wine Glass to the 18th Century.
An exceptionally rare and substantial George III period wine glass, custom-commissioned in 1792.
The centrepiece is a masterfully engraved Ducal Coronet, signifying that this union involved members of the British Peerage. Below the coronet is a stylized monogram "P = M", where the rare "equal sign" explicitly denotes the joining of two houses. The crisp date 1792 is prominently featured beneath the monogram.
Based on the Ducal Coronet and the 1792 date, this glass likely commemorates a union within the highest circles of the British aristocracy. Potential candidates for the "P" and "M" connection include:
The Pelham-Clinton Family (Dukes of Newcastle): One of the few houses entitled to the Ducal Coronet.
The Parker Family (Earls of Macclesfield): Who maintained high-status alliances and frequently commissioned premium glassware.
The Manners Family (Dukes of Rutland): Whose marriages in the 1790s were major social events of the Georgian era.
Technical Specifications
Era: Late Georgian / George III (dated 1792).
Metal: Heavy Lead "Flint" Glass with a characteristic greyish tint and superb resonance.
Weight: An massive 247 grams (far exceeding standard glasses of the period).
Stem: Features a complex seven-part air-tear cluster (one large central tear surrounded by six smaller ones) within a sturdy baluster knop.
Foot: High-domed foot with an authentic, rough snapped-off pontil mark.
Dimensions: Height: 16.2 cm.
Condition Report
This glass has been meticulously preserved:
No chips (rim and foot-rim are smooth and free of "flea bites").
No cracks or internal bruising.
No repairs or restorations of any kind.
The engraving remains sharp and clear, and the glass displays no "sickness" or clouding.
Collector's Note
Dated Georgian glass is highly coveted, but a specifically dated Union piece with a Ducal Coronet and a multi-tear stem is a "holy grail" for collectors of English lead glass. Its weight and condition make it an investment-grade example of 18th-century social history.
Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Georgian Engraved Wine Glass to the 18th Century.
Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page
Museum-Grade 1792 Georgian "Ducal Union" Wine Glass – 247g Lead Crystal – Dated & Engraved
