Set of Three Early 20th-Century Glass Staircase Finials - 6¾"

This decorative set of three early 20th-century glass staircase finials brings together clear mold-blown glass globes with three distinct mounts: one in brass, one combining turned wood and brass, and one in painted metal with a softly worn finish. Each globe has a rounded, melon-like form articulated by broad vertical ribs, with the slight waviness, small bubbles and gentle irregularities characteristic of older blown glass. These subtle variations soften the geometry and give each finial an individual, hand-worked character, while the differing mounts reinforce the assembled, collected quality of the trio.

Originally made to crown staircase newel posts, these architectural ornaments are known in France as boules d’escalier and were especially popular around the turn of the 20th century. The mounts show traces of later adaptation: one globe has been set into a turned wooden base conceived as a display stand, while the others retain older fixing elements and plaster infill beneath, probably added during an earlier remounting or adaptation. These details are visible underneath and form part of their architectural history.  

Removed from their original setting, the finials now work beautifully as decorative objects in their own right. Grouped on a console, mantel or bookshelf, their clear ribbed forms create a light, luminous rhythm, while the differing mounts add warmth and a pleasingly collected quality.

Note: A similar set is also available for separate purchase here.