Hi Lynni,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The name 'Baccarat' is a well-known name of a French (rather than Italian) glassworks, which was founded in 1764 by order of King Louis XV; it is one of the world's premier producers of fine lead crystal and is usually marked with a circular etched mark. I don't see that mark on either of these, at least not in the photos you've attached here.

My initial impression is that they are more likely to be 20th-century European or American cut crystal than Baccarat.

From the photos, I can tell that the bodies of these have vertical optic-molded flutes rather than hand-cut facets. The lower portion has pressed or molded sunburst (rosette) motifs. The stoppers are large, faceted ball stoppers that appear well matched. The necks are plain and elegant with a narrow collar.

These features suggest they may have been mold-blown and then finished, rather than entirely hand-cut from heavy lead crystal...all characteristics of American glasswork.

Wine or spirit decanters evoke an atmosphere of elegance, hospitality, ritual, and refined living. More than simple vessels, they transform the act of serving wine into a deliberate ceremony, suggesting an appreciation for craftsmanship, conversation, and the pleasures of the table. They recall centuries of European dining customs, country houses, grand hotels, and family celebrations where wine was decanted before guests.

Cut crystal decanters catch and refract candlelight or ambient light, creating a sense of luxury associated with fine dining and formal entertaining.

Having said all that, unless one is looking for a new decanter - in which one would have to pay a handsome retail price in the low three figures - when decanters are offered at auction, they usually sell for very low prices, typically around or below $50, depending on condition.

Liquid left in a decanter can negatively impact its condition, typically with residue left over from evaporation or mineral deposits if the decanters are not washed and fully dried before being refilled.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

Two blown molded and hand-finished crystal wine decanters
American, late 19th/early 20th Century
Each of circular section and flaring form, with faceted bulb stopper, lobed sides and rosette or star-cut bases
Both approximately 15 1/4 inches tall and 4-1/2 inches greatest diameter
CONDITION: With minor wear commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Acquired at a garage sale
$ 35-50 each or $75-100 for the pair*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia