These smallish carafe are a French tradition at table, and are called properly "carafon". They normally have stoppers (our 3 have none) and they are used to have either water or wine service at each place at the formal or informal table. Sometimes you will see service that places one such small decanter between a couple seated side by side, to share. These carafes hold about 12-16 oz, so usually the perfect decanter size for a couple to refill their wine goblets during a meal. I first saw these in museums, such as on the table of Empress Catherine of Russia, St. Petersburg, but have also been served in restaurants throughout France with informal adaptations of the small caraf as I dine alone while on buying trips. The habit is so charming, we suggest you begin to take it on as part of your dinner table with guests. The set of 3 you see here would be perfect in use for a table of 3 couples or 6 persons. Or as you like. These are not vases, but in a pinch you might be tempted to add a few stems to each and use them as a centerpiece. However you use them, they'll enrich your table and elevate your dining experience.

Very good to excellent for age and type. The 3 as you see them are without damage. The stoppers are no longer with them, which renders them incomplete, but for wine you want the libation to breathe, do you not? Raised gold enamel is lavishly applied against the pale green blown crystal. These are likely either St. Louis or perhaps Baccarat, and are c.1830-60. Fine set of 3.