Topic: Vintage glass cockerel/hen on spiral stem with cup? What's it for???

[johnfandmaryp]

Can anyone help me with this unusual item, which came in a big mixed lot? It's a hen or cockerel on a double spiral stem with a cup at the base. Stands about 6.5" tall and the 'cup' is about 2.25" in diameter at the rim. Appears to be all hand made, and I would guess has some age to it.
The thing that's really puzzling me is what is it? Can't be for drinking out of as the edge of the cup is flat and unfinished, so I can only guess that it's a measure of some sort.
Any ideas?

main view ~ http://glassgallery.yobunny.org.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-8865
bird detail ~ http://glassgallery.yobunny.org.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-8864
stem detail ~ http://glassgallery.yobunny.org.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-8863
edge of cup ~ http://glassgallery.yobunny.org.uk/displayimage.php?pos=-8862

Thanks in aniticpation, John.

[Sue C]

stirrup cup?

No, just been and looked, that's not it.

[Anne E.B.]

Could it be a candle snuffer? (said in a whispered voice).

[johnfandmaryp]

Sue ~ thought about a stirrup cup, but didn't seem right to me.

Anne ~ perhaps a candle snuffer, but all the ones I've seen have been much narrower!

Nice tries, and very much appreciated. Thank you, John.

[Frank]

Reminds me of a Webb ashtray that I have, unfortunately packed away now.

[Sue C]

What about a bell ? sometimes the clapper is only glued in.

[johnfandmaryp]

What about a bell ? sometimes the clapper is only glued in.

Don't think so Sue ~ there's no sign of anything ever having been attached inside it.
Thanks, John  :huh:

[johnfandmaryp]

Reminds me of a Webb ashtray that I have, unfortunately packed away now.

That must be quite an unusual ashtray, Frank.

[Frank]

Yes, has a bird on top of a spiral column.