of tapering cylindrical form with a plain handle, each with a hinged metal thumb rest and domed cover pierced with gothic designs, the stylised finial with foliate details, the clear ground body overlaid in opaque white and pale blue, cut through with shaped panels and oval printies, each piece with a central panel engraved with the Breadalbane crest and the Order of the Thistle (Dimensions: approximately 19cm high) (Qty: 4) (approximately 19cm high) Qty: (4) Provenance: Taymouth Castle, Perthshire Wooton House, Bedfordshire Footnote: Note: On 1st May 1851 The Great Exhibition was declared open by John Campbell, 2nd Marquess of Breadalbane, as Lord Steward. Below is an excerpt from Queen Victoria's diary on the opening of the Great Exhibition: This concluded, the Procession of great length began, which was beautifully arranged, the prescribed order being exactly adhered to. The Nave was full of people, which had not been intended, and deafening cheers and waving of handkerchiefs continued the whole time of our long walk from one end of the building to the other. Every face was bright and smiling, and many had tears in their eyes. Many Frenchmen called out 'Vive la Reine'. One could, of course, see nothing but what was high up in the Nave, and nothing in the Courts. The organs were but little heard, but the Military Band at one end had a very fine effect, playing the march from Athalie as we passed along. The old Duke of Wellington and Ld. Anglesey walked arm in arm, which was a touching sight. I saw many acquaintances amongst those present. We returned to our place and Albert told Ld. Breadalbane to declare the Exhibition to be opened, which he did in a loud voice saying 'Her Majesty commands me to declare this Exhibition open,' when there was a flourish of trumpets, followed by immense cheering. We then made our bow and left. Queen Victoria’s Journal, 1851 [taken from The Great Exhibition of 1851, compiled by C.H. Gibbs Smith (London: 1950). pages 16-18] By family repute the layered Bohemian glass lots 21, 22 & 23 was a presentation gift to the Marquess to commemorate the occasion of his opening the Great Exhibition. It is likely that the glass was manufactured by an exhibitor participating in The Great Exhibition.