DRINK OF CHOICE
Curations
DRINK OF CHOICE
Yes, we have a drink of choice. Beyond its oft-neglected efficacy and—depending on the bartender—how smooth it is on the tongue; the martini has the quality of having a strong character, an effortless cool. One can imagine quite easily who its patrons might be –from Kingsley Amis, Dorothy Parker, and Luis Buñuel to James Bond himself, despite his odd demands of “shaken, not stirred”. As Ernest Hemingway, one of many famous martini enthusiasts described the effects of the drink in A Farewell To Arms, “I had never felt anything so cool and clean...they made me feel civilized”. The personalities of these famous martini drinkers—brash, acerbic and to the point—are mirrored in the architecture of the iconic martini glass. Similarly made to fit the demands of the drink—designed during Prohibition, the shallow conical bowl of the glass was used to dispose of the drinks quickly when necessary. Whilst this need for efficacy makes for a sleek and streamlined design for your regular martini glass, they have been known to be as inventive and suited to the occasion, as the times became more welcoming of the martini’s “civilized” charms.
Drinking Glass, Venice, c. 1550-1650
Fitting in perfectly with the theme of gilded glamour, this drinking glass would fit right in with the atmosphere for lush Spring nights—the perfect character for themed occasions with its opulent flourishes, such as this year’s 2024 Met Gala itself.
Martini Glass, Steuben Glass Inc., c. 1923-33
These Steuben Martini glasses are perfect for the casual connoisseur –of either glassware or spirits. Oozing a sort of casual sophistication, due to their rounded opulence, these belong in the hands of someone who always has a high opinion of what they’re drinking, and what they’re drinking out of.
Maansib Venetian Filigrana Goblet, c., 1575-99
The delicate filigree of this Venetian Goblet would fit right in amongst the place settings at a day-time Spring wedding. It’s soft detailing and the gold rings that hold the funnel exude a bridal poise. However, we might be guilty of leaving early after dancing to a few songs to go home and, well, read before falling asleep.
Glass Chalice, c., 1600-99
Perfect for a drink before a night at the ballet, the drama of this Glass Chalise calls to mind the liquid grace and momentum of dancers moving in synchronicity. Its pale champagne-coloured glass demands restraint before a night of culture, demurely.
Trike Cobalt Blue Teardrop Handblown Martini Glasses, c., 1970-79
These Zrike Martini glasses exude a vintage suaveness that belongs in a bar with dark upholstery and 70s music. Both sophisticated and casually cool –these are perfect for a night when one wants to indulge in taking oneself out for dinner and a drink, and maybe an exhibit or a stroll through a bookshop.
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