The Fascinating Legacy of the Breast-Shaped Champagne Coupe
The tale that the champagne coupe was modelled on Marie Antoinette’s breast is one of those enduring myths - seductive, royal, and slightly absurd. According to legend, the iconic glass took its shape from a mould of the French queen’s left breast, a tribute to her beauty and decadence.
But while it makes for a great story over drinks, there’s no evidence to support it. In fact, the coupe predates Marie Antoinette by well over a century, first appearing in 17th-century England during a period of innovation in glassmaking. Far from being born of royalty, it was likely designed for general wine service of the sweeter and more common style, not sparkling wine specifically.
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Despite being ill-suited for champagne - the wide bowl lets bubbles escape quickly - the coupe became a symbol of glamour in the 20th century, especially in the Jazz Age. Today, it remains popular for cocktails and vintage aesthetics. The myth, however, persists—thanks in part to cultural fascination with the female form. Modern reinterpretations, like Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer lending their breasts to custom glasses, have kept the fantasy alive. Yet practical experiments have shown how implausible the origin story is; breast-shaped glasses are, quite simply, impractical.
In the end, the coupe’s real history is rooted in craftsmanship, not court gossip. The coupe glass likely originated from Greek goblets or cups and was later adapted for Champagne in the late 18th century. While the story is persistent, historical evidence to support the breast-shaped design is lacking. But like many things in drinking culture, the myth endures because it’s deliciously fun to believe. So raise your glass - whether coupe, flute or tumbler - and savour both the drink and the stories it inspires.
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