Glass and holder for spa therapy
Modern Era, Europe
AL9602
Vichy-branded glass used by spa clients. Use of Vichy waters can be traced back to the 17th century. Spa clients would initially bring their own cup, before later paying the spa therapist a small fee for a measuring glass. For hygiene reasons, glasses became a personal object during the 19th century and were no longer shared.
Datasheet
- Type: Glass
- Place of origin: France
- Materials and techniques: Glass Osier Leather Brass
- Date: after 1910
- Dimensions: Glass: 9.5 x 8.5 + 6 / Holder: 11 x 8.5 x 9.5 cm
- Weight: 180g
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Knowledge
Spa therapy
The healing properties of natural mineral water have been well-known since Antiquity. Mineral springs were frequented by the local population until the 17th century, then began to be developed into spa resorts in the following century: Spa in Belgium, Aix-en-Savoie in France and especially Bath in Great Britain, which became a model for spa towns. Whereas in the 17th century doctors recommended drinking up to four litres of water a day, two centuries later, people were advised to ‘consume in moderation’ using graduated glasses.
Knowledge
Mineral water
The medicinal properties of mineral waters were already known back in Roman times. The Romans enjoyed thermal baths and transported water in amphorae. In 19th century Europe, the discovery of polluted water in distribution systems encouraged the trade in bottled mineral water, synonymous with purity. Since the Second World War, mineral water sales have been boosted through changes in consumption patterns.