Quicksilver, also called poor man's silver, was popular because it gave a silver look without the high cost of real silver. This made luxurious-looking decoration accessible to people with a smaller budget. Over time, poor man's silver can develop an antique, spotted patina because the silver layer partially comes loose from the glass. Height: 27 cm. Ø: 12 cm. The silver layer has weathered (nicely) over time. Origin: France, around 1900. Material: glass.