Pair Of Fine Antique German Silver And Cut Crystal Decanters

A spectacular pair of fine antique German silver and cut crystal decanters. Each decanter is formed with a broad, faceted body rising to a tall, narrow neck and is mounted with chased silver collars and footed bases. The crystal bodies are cut with angular facets that catch the light and taper smoothly into the necks. The silver mounts at the base feature scrolling acanthus leaves and floral patterns in relief, bordered with beaded rims. The neck mounts display repoussé floral scrollwork and stylized foliage, providing a richly ornamented contrast to the clear faceted crystal.The stoppers are especially distinctive, composed of faceted crystal enclosed within pierced silver mounts surmounted by animal finials. One stopper is crowned by a swan, its wings partially spread, while the other is topped with a hare seated upright. The silver cages surrounding the crystal stoppers are decorated with small relief figures and ornamental scrolls, forming a framework that secures the cut crystal element beneath the animal finials. The combination of figural silverwork and crystal cutting reflects the elaborate detailing characteristic of German silver-mounted wares.These decanters were produced in Germany, where silver and crystal-mounted tablewares were a hallmark of 19th-century decorative arts. German silversmiths and glassmakers frequently collaborated, combining high-quality cut crystal with chased and repoussé silver mounts. The intricate mounts and figural finials indicate work by skilled German workshops known for their decorative silver objects intended for both functional and display purposes. The use of animal finials, such as the hare and swan, reflects a taste for naturalistic and symbolic motifs within German silver design of the period.