185 - A FINE EARLY 19TH CENTURY VIENNESE ENAMELLED AND GILT GLASS BEAKER OF ST VEIT

A FINE EARLY 19TH CENTURY VIENNESE ENAMELLED AND GILT GLASS BEAKER OF ST VEIT Attributed to Anton Kothgasser (1769-1851) the clear glass beaker painted in polychrome enamels with a topographical view of Vienna, within a decorative gilt border, the rim with amber stained border and gilt band of stylised motifs, the reverse inscribed in gilt lettering 'Die schlosskirche St Veit mit dem Spanisch fall und der staubbrucke gegen mitti ', the faceted foot with gilt highlights, the underside cut with a radiating star motif stained in amber, 11cm high Footnote: Beakers of this type, combining meticulously painted topographical views with elaborate gilt borders, were produced in Vienna during the Biedermeier period and are closely associated with the celebrated Hausmaler (independent glass painter) Anton Kothgasser (1769–1851) and his circle. The jewel-like quality of the luminous amber glass, detailed miniature painting and radiant gilt highlights of this Ranftbecher demonstrate why Viennese glass of this period is so highly prized.