Antique Trinquetaille glass jars

The two largest (pictured back right and front right) are still available. 

These almost black glass jars date to the late 19^th century / early 20^th century. They are from Trinquetaille near Arles – known for black glass. Originally they were used for trapping vipers. The glasses were left in the sun to warm up – once heated this would attract the snakes – then a lid was fastened and the animal was taken to have its venom milked to make antivenin. These jars would make striking vases.

One measures 6½” diameter x 14¼” high, another 7” diameter x 11½” high and the last 6¼” diameter x 11½” high

One measures 16.5cm diameter x 36cm high, another 17.5cm diameter x 29cm high and the last 16cm diameter x 29cm high