87 - - ABSINTHE TERMINUS - c. 1900

- ABSINTHE TERMINUS - c. 1900 SMALL MODEL - Rare original promotional absinthe fountain made of glass and nickel-plated metal. Approximately 48 cm tall; the glass jar is 12.5 cm in diameter and 29 cm in width including the taps. This is the “small” model— In good condition— 100% original, complete. The glass decanter is of exceptional quality and substantial thickness; it is in perfect condition, with no chips or cracks, and features its clearly legible acid-etched advertising inscription. Complete original frame including the internal filter, the lid with a rooster-shaped handle, and four taps on patinated shower-style stems engraved with “Absinthe Bienfaisante Terminus.” The lid shows a discreet one-centimeter crack in the metal, as well as an old solder joint on the cock’s legs. Also on the lid, only the upper hinge has been modified/restored (making the lid removable). There is slight wear and tear on the base. One of the taps is currently detached. Founded in 1893, the “Terminus” extra-superior absinthe brand established its commercial headquarters in Lyon and its distillery in Pontarlier (Doubs/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté). Merged into the Société Anonyme des Absinthes Françaises in 1898, the brand promoted its pure Pontarlier-produced absinthe made from selected botanicals. It promoted the concept of “Beneficial Absinthe”: a crucial advertising strategy to present its product as healthy and easy to digest, thereby distinguishing itself from the adulterated and toxic spirits of the Belle Époque. The AI-generated atmospheric photo is presented for illustrative purposes to help appreciate the object’s proportions in context. Only the original photographs are considered authentic. Its meteoric rise came to a definitive end with the law banning absinthe in 1915. THE ABSINTHE FOUNTAIN: UNDERSTANDING THE RITUAL - A signature feature of Belle Époque bistros (1900), the fountain was used to dispense ice-cold water drop by drop. This very slow trickle of water was essential for dissolving the sugar on the spoon and releasing the aromas of the “Green Fairy.” Models with four spouts allowed several customers to prepare their drinks simultaneously. SHIPPING & PICKUP: Shipping is handled by service providers specializing in the care of works of art. For this collectible piece, we strongly recommend purchasing their shipping insurance. To ensure it remains in perfect condition during transit, the fountain will be shipped disassembled. The item may also be picked up free of charge at our office, with no storage fees.