The last pressed glass service from the Royal Leerdam factory was produced by the new chief designer Floris Meydam. The name was certainly intended to refer to the astrological sign, but the ultramodern line of the design is also inspired by a cosmic vibration. In astronomy libration (from the Latin verb libro -are "to balance, to sway", cf. libra "scales") refers to the various orbital conditions which make it possible to see more than 50% of the moon's surface over time, even though the front of the Moon is tidally locked to always face towards the earth. The strong-lined heavyweight design was quickly popular in shopwindows across the land. The sharply angled facets are like reflectors which capture the available light, while the forms combine geometric and organic elements.

Although the set was clearly intended to serve for breakfast as well as cocktails, it is noteworthy that there is no waterjug, and no vase. The large bowl, compote bowl and sideplate were also produced briefly with a gold edge. It remained in production until 1957. The modular design of the serving-plates is also worthy of mention. The standard long oval plate appears under the milk and sugar set, and as a presentation tray on it's own. In a boxed sets the shape was divided into two semi-oval trays, and into 4 quarter-oval trays. With this combination the cocktail party hostess could prepare pickles or sauces in suitable quantities and hand them round using the convenient handles. In 1953 Meydam designed an additional placesetting ashtray/peanut bowl, which was boxed in sets of six. (The drawing shown does not match the design that was actually produced!

Prices at Hogelandshoeve - 2008