Antique Glass Wine Thief (Pipette à Vin) Engraved “J. Latrille Fils – Bordeaux” c.1890–1930
- FREE UK SHIPPING WITH ALL ORDERS
- INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS PLEASE PROCEED TO CHECKOUT FOR SHIPPING QUOTES
A Rare Antique Glass Wine Thief (Pipette à Vin) Engraved “J. Latrille Fils – Bordeaux”.
This hand blown glass pipette à vin, or wine thief, was used for drawing samples from barrels in cellars and tasting rooms. The long, narrow form allowed cellar workers or merchants to extract a measure of wine for inspection without disturbing maturation. The engraved inscription identifies it with J. Latrille Fils, a Bordeaux wine merchant (négociant) active in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Archival advertising and poster art from the 1910s–1920s attest that J. Latrille Fils marketed Bordeaux wines and proprietary brands such as Spécial Étoile Rouge – Grand Vin Blanc. Like many Bordeaux houses of the period, the firm likely blended and distributed wines sourced from various regional châteaux rather than operating its own estate. Promotional objects bearing the company name, including this finely made pipette, were often presented to clients, restaurateurs, or trade partners as gifts symbolising quality and craftsmanship.
Surviving examples of engraved cellar tools from Bordeaux firms are uncommon. This piece reflects both the practical traditions of barrel sampling and the commercial culture of Bordeaux’s négociant trade at the turn of the twentieth century.
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound with no obvious chips or cracks.
Measures 35.5cm x 7cm x 3cm
Weighs 219.31 grams