This unusual mouth-blown carafe was inspired by similar pieces found in bars and bistros throughout Europe at the end of the 19th century. Once water is added to the carafe, it acts as a magnifying glass and enlarges the text on the dome. The dome-shaped hollow at the bottom of the carafe is called the loop, or magnifying glass, which means magnifying glass in French. This magnification was a useful way of attracting attention as a popular marketing tool.

Water carafes were usually placed on bistro tables and were the most common method of preparing a traditional French or Swiss absinthe during the Belle Époque. The correct technique for using the carafe to make an absinthe is to slowly pour, or drip, the water over the sugar cubes until the sugar has completely dissolved from the spoon and fallen into the glass of absinthe as sweet water. As absinthe is made to its own taste, the amount of water (and sugar) added is decided by the preparer. 

• Measures approximately 23.3 cm high.
• The base measures approximately 11.1 cm in diameter.
• Holds approximately .73 L.
• Mouth-blown, clear glass.
• Hand washing is suggested.