An Art Nouveau silverplated and etched glass trumpet vase by the Forbes Silver Co., model number 122. The piece features a removable clear glass trumpet-form liner with a ruffled, undulating rim, delicately wheel-etched with a continuous pattern of Scottish thistles and thorny foliage. The glass liner sits within a pierced silverplated base characterized by a cylindrical sleeve with vertical slotted openwork and a stepped, flared circular foot.

Historical & Style Details

• Artist / Maker: Forbes Silver Co. (Meriden, Connecticut)
• Period: Art Nouveau (1890–1910)
• Origin: United States
• Material / Technique: Silverplated metal, wheel-etched glass
• Materials: glass, silverplate
• Markings: Base marked with Forbes Silver Co. insignia and model number "122"
• Decorative Details: Ruffled rim, wheel-etched Scottish thistle motif, pierced geometric vertical sleeve
• Colour & Surface: Clear glass; heavily tarnished silverplate with dark patina
• Condition: Glass liner intact with no visible chips or cracks; silverplated base shows significant tarnish, surface wear, and minor oxidation consistent with age

History

Produced by the Forbes Silver Co. of Meriden, Connecticut (a division of the International Silver Company established in the late 19th century), this vase exemplifies the Art Nouveau taste of the early 20th century. The Scottish thistle was a highly popular botanical motif during this period, symbolizing grit and rustic beauty, frequently utilized in both American and European decorative arts. Vases with removable glass liners and pierced metal bases allowed for easy cleaning and were fashionable centerpieces for Edwardian and late Victorian dining tables.