Mounted with a portrait medallion of Elizabeth I, Inscribed "DITIOR IN TOTO NON ALTER CIRCULVS ORBE"., after a design by Nicholas Hillaird (1547-1619), struck in 1589 to commemorate the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

17 x 9 x 4 1/2 in. 

Note from Bonhams: Colored glass vessels with gilt-metal mounts are traditionally attributed to Venice, with the colors normally being green or blue. The unusual use of ruby glass for this lot suggests a different country of origin, with Germany or Bohemia being the most likely places. See for example a mid-18th century ruby glass bottle vase of similar size and with gilt-metal foot in the British Museum Collection, item no. 1851, 0909.3, donated in the mid-19th century by Felix Slade as a Venetian example and now attributed to Germany. 

As to why this fine glass vase is mounted with a medallion of an English monarch currently remains a mystery. A similar medal is in the collection of the British Museum, item no 1866, 1218.1, designed by Nicholas Hilliard (1547-1619). The front is of virtual identical design, with the reverse also decorated, with a bay tree protected by lightning and winds, flourishing upon an island. On the island are buildings and in the sea monsters, with three ships in the distance, all within a floral border. These medals were struck in 1589, to commemorate victory over the Spanish Armada and probably served as presents from the Queen to her favorites. 

In good overall condition, with scattered rubbing, tarnishing, and wear to the gilt-metal throughout. The glass in good overall condition with some minor scuffing. Nicely engraved. Top finial detached but retained, and minor separation to one enamel medallion. An old repair to the finial. 

Notwithstanding this report or any discussion concerning condition of a lot, all lots are offered and sold "as is" in accordance with our conditions of sale.