Italian Silver & Emerald Green Glass Bee-Form of Jam Pot

A wonderfully whimsical vintage Italian honey or jam pot in the form of an oversized bee, combining sculptural silver plate with a richly coloured emerald green glass body.

The bee is beautifully modeled with an extraordinary amount of detail, from its articulated legs and finely worked head to the engraved wings, which are hinged to lift and reveal the green glass vessel beneath. The vivid emerald glass provides a particularly striking contrast against the aged silvered metal and gives the piece a jewel-like quality when displayed.

Marked “Made Italy” and bearing a “FI” lozenge mark for Firenze (Florence), together with workshop number “37.” The workshop mark has been associated with Florentine maker Teghini, though we would describe the attribution as tentative rather than definitive.

Likely intended as a honey, preserve or jam pot, the piece is a particularly charming example of Italian novelty tableware, where an everyday serving object is transformed into something highly decorative and sculptural. It would be equally appealing displayed on a breakfast table, drinks trolley, bar or among a collection of vintage Italian silver.

Presented in good vintage condition. There is age-related wear and some loss to the silver-plated finish, particularly to the legs and other raised areas, along with light surface wear and patination consistent with age and use. These details lend the piece an appealing, time-softened character.

Dimensions: 6” L x 4.5” W x 3.5” H.