Antique 18th Century Firing Glass c.1770
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A lovely Antique 18th Century Firing Glass, Dating To Around 1770. It is engraved in diamond point “Jane Jones Raven Inn Aberdovey”. Jane Jones was the proprietor of the pub in Wales.
The Raven Inn in Aberdovey (also known by its Welsh name, Aberdyfi) holds a unique place in the village’s history, though it no longer operates as a public house today. Its name and legacy are closely tied to the influential Corbet family, who were prominent landowners in the region.
The Raven Inn derived its name from the Corbet family, whose ancestral seat was at Moreton Corbet in Shropshire. The family’s coat of arms featured a black raven, and their motto was Deus Pascit Corvos—Latin for “God feeds the ravens.” The surname “Corbet” itself is of French origin, stemming from “corbeau,” meaning raven. This emblematic bird became a significant symbol in the area, influencing local landmarks such as the Raven Inn.
“Firing glasses” are so named because of the ritualistic “firing” toasts made with them, ceremonial, often noisy, and celebratory. They weren’t for actual gunfire, but for symbolic, boisterous toasts that sometimes mimicked the firing of guns or cannon salutes as the glasses were slammed down on the table.
This is a charming example with red and white twist and thick base. The engraving makes it a particularly nice piece of social history.
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound. No chips or cracks.
Measures 10.5cm x 7cm
Weighs 180.03 grams