Before it gained its famous title, the collection bore two other names: Schönbrunn and Gloriette. However, when Leo Moser dedicated this drinkware set to Pope Pius XI, its name was changed forever. The set comprising of 200 glasses and carafes enthuses not only its recipient but also lovers of hand-cut crystal in places as far as Ireland to Indonesia. With its aesthetic and practical qualities, it influenced the appearance of other collections. We can find a similar signature in the glassware sets Cromwell, Lady Hamilton, Adele Melikoff, Thomas, and Jubilant.
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History and production
The timeless elegance of the papal cut
When you first lay eyes on any of the pieces from the Pope collection, you’ll quickly realize why it became a favourite amongst religious dignitaries, diplomatic circles, and aristocratic courts. Its sophistication lies in the so-called “papal cut”. The bell-shaped chalice is decorated with a flat, arched cut. The faceted stem then gracefully transitions into a hexagonal crown. If you would like, the collection’s refined appearance may be topped with an oroplastic of 24-carat gold.
- Hand-blown from environmentally friendly lead-free crystal
- Hand cut and polished to a high gloss