when new this must have been quite an exquisite piece - and glows like a trooper under the u.v. light. Unfortunately, much of the gold has worn away, well I suppose it would after maybe a hundred years or more. Has a definite continental look - makes me think Bohemian. 23 cms. tall and 8 cms. at the widest. Inside is as smooth and shiny as the proverbial -- but the exterior (apart from the base) appears acid etched, and the gold pattern seems familar but I don't know from where. However, main reason for the post is that I am mystified by the gold lettering/number on the base. The old upper case 'D' we can see, but what is the next character - is it a figure 4?? Thanks for looking, and grateful for any replies. cheers Paul S.