Friedrich Egermann Biedermeier spa glass 1841 ht. 4-1/2″
Friedrich Egermann Biedermeier green cut and gilded spa glass with panels of elaborate ‘HOFFNUNN’ and ‘GESUNDHEIT’ motifs and rocaille enameling picked out in gilt. Engraved ‘Erni’ ‘Karlsbad’ ‘1841’ ht. 4-1/2″ – coll.#GL16
‘HOFFNUNN’ = HOPE / PROMISE – THE ANCHOR IN CHRISTIANITY USUALLY SIGNIFIES JESUS.
‘GESUNDHEIT’ = HEALTHINESS / SPIRITUAL WELL BEING [WITH A CHALICE, SNAKE AND SHAFT*]
*The bowl of Hygeia symbol is the most widely recognized international symbol of pharmacy. In Greek mythology, Hygeia was the daughter and assistant of Aesculapius (sometimes spelled Asklepios), the God of Medicine and Healing. Hygeia’s classical symbol was a bowl containing a medicinal potion with the serpent of Wisdom (or guardianship) partaking it.
A apt design for taking the waters at a health spa!