Tumbler

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art this elegant *Tumbler* from the New England Glass Companyca. 1883–88) exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of late 19th-century Americanmaking. Standing just 4 3/16 inches tall with a 2 1/4-inch diameter, this blown glass was designed for everyday use—perfect for a refreshing drink—yet reflects the era's blend of functionality and subtle luxury. Gifted to the Met in 1946 by Mrs. Emily Winthrop Miles, captures the industrial innovation of post-Civil War America, when companies like New England Glass, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, produced high-quality tableware to rival European imports. The blown glass technique, involving molten glass shaped by skilled artisans using a blowpipe, allowed for the tumbler's smooth, symmetrical form and thin walls. This method highlighted the glassmakers' expertise in controlling viscosity and clarity, resulting in a durable yet delicate object. During the 1880s, as America's decorative arts flourished amid economic growth, such tumblers embodied cultural aspirations for refined domestic life, bridging utility and artistry. Though modest in scale, this tumbler stands as a testament to American ingenuity, showcasing how everyday items became collectible treasures in museum collections today. Visitors can appreciate its preserved translucence, evoking the sparkle of Gilded Age tabletops.

About the Artist

New England Glass Company · 1818–1888

**The New England Glass Company: Pioneers of American Flint Glass** The New England Glass Company was established on February 16, 1818, in East Cambridge, Massachusetts, by a quartet of prominent local businessmen: Amos Binney, Edmund Munroe, Daniel Hastings, and Deming Jarves. Jarves, drawing on his dry goods background and talent for recruiting Europe's finest cutters, served as operational man...