Vase

Art Historical Context

This delicate vase, crafted between 1860 and 1880 by an unknown American artist, exemplifies the artistry of mid-19th-century glassmaking in the United States. Standing just 6 1/4 inches tall, it was created using the free-blown technique, where molten is shaped directly by the blower's breath and tools without molds. This method allowed for fluid, organic forms and showcased the glassmaker's skill in controlling viscosity and color. The striking combination of aquamarine (a blue-green) and red glass adds vibrancy, likely achieved through layering or threading techniques popular in American workshops during this era. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing and acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1920, the vase reflects the flourishing glass industry in post-Civil War America. Centers like Pittsburgh and New England produced such elegant tablewares and decorative objects for middle-class homes, blending European influences with innovative American production. Its dual tones evoke Victorian tastes for jewel-like opulence, making it a window into everyday luxury. Though the maker remains anonymous—a common trait for utilitarian glass of the time—this piece highlights the anonymous craftsmanship that defined American decorative arts, inviting visitors to appreciate the subtle mastery in its iridescent hues and graceful silhouette.