Four Bohemian Crystal Gulabdans For The Ottoman Market, 19th Century

H:2Set of four soliflore rose-water bottles in Bohemian crystal and opaline (white opaline, cobalt blue crystal and ruby red crystal), with very elongated necks and bulbous bowls resting on a pedestal, featuring hand-painted polychrome enamelled decoration enhanced with gilding depicting floral motifs, bouquets, foliage and cabochons.
Bohemian (for the Eastern/Ottoman market). 19th–early 20th century.
H 27 cm to 29 cm.
Very good condition.

In the 19th century, the major glass-making centres of Bohemia had specialised in producing pieces in coloured crystal (ruby red, cobalt blue) and opaline for the Ottoman Empire market. These bottles with tapered necks, known as gulabdans, were used to sprinkle rose water during welcoming ceremonies and formed part of toiletries and ceremonial sets of great visual splendour.

Our set of Bohemian crystal spray bottles is a testament to the mastery of Central European glassmakers and decorators, combined with the refined and highly colourful aesthetic favoured by the Eastern market in the 19th century.