The filigree decoration of this glass is distorted by the mould-blown, knobbly surface at its base. This recalls the shape of Medieval beakers, where the pattern was either mould-blown or in the shape of applied round pads or spikes of glass, known as prunts. Such decorations had the function of preventing the glass from slipping when handled with greasy hands during the meal. Here the effect is purely decorative, as the elegant diner would have held the the glass by its foot. The delicate filigree decoration in the glass imitates Venetian examples.