Glass Hip Flask
A glass hip flask is a portable vessel for spirits, prized by collectors for its combination of fine metalwork and functional design.
Glass Hip Flask
A glass hip flask combines a sturdy glass or crystal reservoir with protective metal mounts, designed to fit comfortably in a pocket or hunting bag.
Most examples found here date from the late Victorian and Edwardian eras through to the Art Deco period, spanning the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Common forms include plain cut glass bodies fitted with sterling silver or silver-plated caps, frequently accompanied by removable drinking cups.
How they were made
Makers shaped the glass bodies using heavy cut crystal or moulded glass, often incorporating star cuts or textured patterns to catch the light.
Mounts and removable cups utilised sterling silver or silver plate, sometimes enhanced with hand-hammered finishes, engraving, or gold gilt interiors.
Leather components, including crocodile hide and traditional leather casing, were wrapped around the glass body to provide extra grip and protection during field sports.
What varies in quality
Quality rests upon the weight and clarity of the glass, alongside the thickness and integrity of the silver mounts and associated cups.
Signatures from notable makers and clear hallmarks indicating specific assay offices and years elevate a piece above standard utilitarian wares.
The inclusion of original leather cases, matching gilt interiors, and complex mechanisms like collapsible cups distinguish finer examples.
James Dixon & Sons·Asprey London·Sampson Mordan·W A Ellwick Ltd·Mosley Flowers & Co
The Glass Hip Flask Glossary
- Cut Glass
- Glass shaped and patterned by abrasive wheels, creating deep facets that refract light across the body of the flask.
- Silver Gilt
- Sterling silver that has been coated with a thin layer of gold on its interior surfaces, often found inside the drinking cup.
- Removable Cup
- A sliding metal cup fitted to the base of the flask, held in place by friction or a bayonet mount for sharing spirits.
- Hallmark
- A series of official marks stamped into precious metal indicating the maker, assay office, and year of testing.
- Campaign Set
- A portable collection of spirit flasks and beakers housed within a fitted case, designed for travel and field sports.
Glass Hip Flask: Frequently Asked Questions
What were glass hip flasks used for?
These vessels served outdoor pursuits such as hunting, shooting, and riding, providing a portable measure of spirits during long days in the field.
Travellers and campaigners also relied on them for personal refreshment during transit.
How do I clean an antique flask?
Rinse the glass interior gently with warm water and mild soap, avoiding harsh abrasives that might damage old glass or thin silver plating.
Polish the exterior silver mounts with a soft cloth and dedicated metal cleaner, taking care to avoid any leather casing.
Are the cups on the bottom removable?
Many examples feature a lower cup that slides off the glass body to serve as a drinking vessel.
These cups are typically secured by a snug fit or a twist mechanism.
How can I tell the date of a flask?
Metal mounts and cups often bear silver hallmarks that record the assay office and the exact year of manufacture.
Stylistic details like cut glass patterns and leather bindings also help place a piece within the Victorian or Edwardian eras.