Ah, the champagne glass—a vessel that not only holds our beloved bubbly but is steeped in a delightful cocktail of history, culture, and tantalizing myths. Particularly, the coupe has enjoyed its status as an icon of elegance and indulgence, intertwined with the allure of Hollywood and the charm of legendary figures.
The coupe, with its broad, shallow bowl, was once rumored to have been modeled on the left breast of Marie Antoinette. While it’s a juicy story, this titillating tale fizzles out under historical scrutiny; the design actually originated in England in the 1660s, well before the French queen’s reign. Though she was known for her lavish tastes, this particular piece of tableware can’t be counted among her influences.
However, the myth of breast-inspired champagne glasses found a grain of truth centuries later in a rather glamorous setting. In 2014, supermodel Kate Moss celebrated 25 years in the fashion industry by having a coupe designed after her own left breast. Crafted by artist Jane McAdam Freud, this modern interpretation infused a classic legend with contemporary celebrity culture.
The coupe didn’t just catch the fancy of supermodels; it has been a favorite among Hollywood’s elite for decades. Perhaps no star has been more closely associated with this style of glass than Marilyn Monroe, whose effervescent charm and glamorous lifestyle seemed to echo the bubbly she famously sipped from coupes. The image of Monroe laughing as she held a delicate coupe, perfectly manicured fingers poised elegantly, has become an enduring symbol of vintage Hollywood glamour.
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The Libbey Georgian Coupe is the glass
Marilyn Monroe is holding in the above photo
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This iconic glass has witnessed the rise and fall of stars, toasted successes at countless golden-era parties, and added a splash of sophistication to black-tie galas. Even as drinking trends evolve, the coupe remains a beloved relic of a more glamorous time, a piece of history that continues to sparkle in the hands of today’s socialites and celebrities.
So, whether you’re toasting with an authentic coupe or just enjoying the stories swirled within its crystal contours, you're not just sipping champagne; you're indulging in a rich legacy of luxury, legend, and cinematic lore. Cheers to that!