This drinks set, consisting of a wood and chromed metal tray, a cut-glass decanter and eight matching glasses, was made in France in around 1930 for use on a European ocean liner. Though the names of the ship and manufacturer are not known, the elegant craftsmanship and design of the set suggest that it featured in an exclusive suite or lounge. Surrounding the tray, raised brackets in chromed metal kept the glassware upright in rough seas. The simple, geometric design and harmony between materials is typical of the French Art Deco style.

The Art Deco period spanned the years between the two world wars, and influenced all manner of contemporary art and design. Following Art Nouveau, it existed concurrently with the Machine Age styles, and also reflected the influences of mechanised production and mechanical forms. In most parts of Europe and America, it reflected theories of functionalism and economy.

The maker of this Art Deco drinks set is unknown however it was made in France in about 1930.

Ian Neil Whalland (1963-1996) acquired this drinks set in Brussels for his collection of twentieth-century decorative art objects. He lived in Sydney, and developed his collection during the 1980s and 1990s.

Drinks set, consisting of liquor glasses (8), decanter and tray, glass / wood / chromed metal / felt, maker unknown, made in France, c. 1930

An Art Deco drinks set consisting of eight identical liquor glasses, a glass decanter with stopper and a rectangular wooden tray with wood and chrome-plated sides and four metal claws set at both ends which hold the glasses in place. No marks.

Made: France; 1925 - 1935

No marks.

2005/66/34

1925 - 1935