Pair Bohemian German Etched Glass Ewers

Our pair of German nineteenth century ruby/cranberry colored glass ewers feature etched or engraved cartouches depicting notable buildings in cities across Germany and gilded decorations from top to bottom.  One cartouche left blank for dedication.  Each in good condition, with significant rubbing wear to the gilding.  The base of one handle has been restored.  There is a hairline on the side of the spout of one ewer.  One has a small chip loss from the edge of the underside.  Heights: 11 7/8 and 11 5/8 inches.

Provenance:  Sotheby's sale 7285, The Collection of Alberto Pinto, New York, March 29, 1999, lot 84, hammer price $9,200.

According to Sotheby's, Alberto Pinto (1943–2012) was a photographer and interior designer based in Paris. He designed the interiors of apartments, corporations, hotels, yachts, and jets. He had a home collection of his own and collaborated with many manufacturers, such as Raynaud and Pierre Frey.

A seventeenth century home at the Place des Victoires in Paris was the home of Pinto's interior design and decoration firm which at its height employed 60 people.  The firm was distinguished for its designs for large scale and atypical projects, including residences, corporate headquarters, hotels, yachts, and private jets. Notable projects include the Oceanco's Yacht Y708 and the Seaside Hotel Palm Beach, in Maspalomas.

Additional images forwarded upon request.