Antique glass decanters are the perfect balance of function and look. Although people have been using jugs to decant wine and spirit for thousands of years, when wine sellers began corking their bottles in the Middle Ages, they realised that it often created sediment at the bottom. Therefore, decanters were used to remove this sediment before serving, as well as to allow the wine or spirit to breath and to look more elegant on the dining table. Crystal has always been the preferred material and initially the glass was left clear or simply cut to allow any remaining sediment to be seen but coloured decanters were also available although far rarer now. Many glass decanters during the Georgian period in particular were even given their own wooden cases for storage.
While decanters dropped out of fashion for a short time, it is fair to say that with more home bars and people taking an interest in spirits that they are very much back in fashion now. Because they were intended to be used and are status symbols antique decanters tend to have a very elegant presence and enjoyable weight when held.
At LoveAntiques we have a fine selection of Antique and Vintage decanters for all your needs.