What is the difference between a cordial glass and a wine glass?

Cordial glasses generally feature noticeably smaller bowls and heavier stems designed to hold concentrated spirits rather than table wine. The restricted capacity reflects the potency of the drinks served during the Georgian period.

How can I identify an air twist stem?

An air twist contains continuous spiral threads of tiny bubbles running down the interior of the transparent glass stem. Looking closely under good light reveals these delicate internal channels formed during the pulling of the hot metal.

Why do some glasses have folded feet?

Makers folded the rim of the foot underneath itself while the glass was hot to strengthen the edge against chipping. This practical feature also adds a pleasing tactile weight to the base of early eighteenth-century stemware.

What periods do these glasses cover?

The pieces span the eighteenth century and into the Regency period, encompassing various reigns from George II onwards. Styles evolved from early heavy balusters to lighter twist stems and later faceted Regency designs.