Pitcher

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

This elegant glass pitcher, crafted by the Boston and Sandwich Glass around 1875–85, exemplifies the height of 19th-century American glassmaking. Founded in 1824 in Sandwich,, the company was a powerhouse of industrial innovation, producing affordable yet beautifully patterned tableware for American homes during the Victorian era. Active until 1888, it helped democratize luxury through mass-produced glass, blending functionality with decorative flair. The pitcher, made of fine glassware, likely showcases the company's signature pressed-glass techniques—a revolutionary method using molds to create intricate designs quickly and precisely. This allowed for ornate motifs like scrolls, florals, or geometric patterns, making everyday objects feel artistic. As part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection (gift of the Brooklyn Museum of Art, Paul F. Walter Collection), it highlights the intersection of craftsmanship and industry in post-Civil War America. Though research on this specific piece continues, it stands as a testament to New England's glass heritage, reflecting a time when American factories rivaled European imports and brought beauty to the parlor table. Visitors, imagine pouring lemonade from this heirloom—history in every gleam!