A Ship’s Cut Glass Decanter, with stopper

Price: £40

Dimensions: Height 24 cm, Length 19 cm, Depth 19 cm (9.4 in x 7.5 in x 7.5 in)

This vintage ship’s decanter has precisely the sort of gloriously generous shape that deserves a permanent place in the room, rather than being tucked away until the drinks trolley makes an appearance. Its broad, low-slung body, tall neck and original fitted stopper are richly cut with geometric panels and a radiating starburst, catching the light from every direction.

Likely dating from the mid-20th century, around the 1950s–60s, it is a wonderfully handsome example of the classic ship’s decanter form. Similar English cut-crystal examples of this scale and silhouette are catalogued to around 1960, with starburst-cut bases and decorative stoppers adding to their rather theatrical sparkle.

Fill it with whisky, brandy or just water if you are feeling exceptionally civilised. But really, it is in the sunshine that this decanter performs at its best, turning a windowsill, sideboard or drinks table into a little glittering sea of light.