Bowl

Art Historical Context

This delicate bowl, crafted around 1885 by an unknown British artist, exemplifies the Victorian era's fascination with ornamental glassware. Standing just 2 inches (5.1 cm) tall, it was made from blown brown and white opaque satin glass technique where molten glass is blown into shape, then treated with hydrofluoric acid to create a soft, velvety matte finish. The contrasting brown and white swirls add a subtle elegance, making it ideal as a small trinket dish or candy bowl for affluent homes. Satin glass surged in popularity during the 1880s Aesthetic Movement in Britain, blending industrial precision with artistic beauty. This piece reflects that era's transatlantic appeal, finding its way into American collections and now residing in The Met's American Wing. Its opacity and satin texture diffused light beautifully, evoking luxury without ostentation. Generously donated in 1946 by Mrs. Emily Winthrop Miles, this bowl offers a glimpse into everyday refinement of the Gilded Age. Though diminutive, it captures the craftsmanship that bridged utility and decoration in 19th-century design.