Gazogene soda fountain
Date: 1850-1900
Inventory Number: 1998-1-0961
Classification: Gas Generator
Maker: Briet (ca. 1850 - 1900)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
44.3 x 16.9 x 16.9 cm (17 7/16 x 6 5/8 x 6 5/8 in.)
Description:
Ornate glass vessel, with two main bulbs arranged vertically (the bottom smaller than the top one), each covered in brown wicker. The porcelain base is painted and carved with green, gold, and white foliage, with a blue and gold rim above. Between the two bulbs is a brass tap with a stopcock coming out of one side. A glass tube runs from the top compartment into the lower one.
In Collection(s)
Signedon spout: GAZOGENE / BRIET / BREVETÉ, S.G.D.G [faded]; on stopcock: BRIET / BTÉ S.G.D.C. / PARIS
FunctionFrom ad (see primary sources): "Soda water apparatus (with metal or improved glass tube) for the immediate production of Soda-water, Lemonade, Sparkling Wine etc. etc. The delightful beverages made with the Gazogene renders it an almost necessary requisite for the dinner table, while its extensive introduction into most of the French and many of the English Hospitals is a guarantee of its value in the sick chamber."
Primary SourcesAn advertisement of this device can be found in; Medical Times and Gazette, Vol. 10 (1855), p. 612. Available online in Google Books here.