Wine Glass

Art Historical Context

This delicate wine glass, crafted between 1770 and 1820 by an unknown American artisan, exemplifies early American glassmaking traditions. Standing just 4 inches (10.2 cm) tall, it is made of non-lead glass—a practical choice in the colonies, where lead oxide (common in finer European glass) was scarce or expensive. The engraved decoration, likely featuring intricate motifs like florals or patriotic symbols, was achieved by scratching designs into the surface with a wheel or diamond point, creating frosted lines that catch the light beautifully. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing, this piece reflects the post-Revolutionary era's push for self-sufficiency in craftsmanship. As America emerged as a young nation, local glasshouses like those in New England produced everyday luxury items, blending functionality with modest elegance. Non-lead glass was durable yet clear, ideal for tavern or household use during a time of social gatherings and toasts to independence. A generous gift from Mrs. John Russel Hastings in 1937, this wine glass offers a tangible glimpse into 18th- and early 19th-century domestic life, highlighting how ordinary objects carried cultural pride and artistic skill. Visitors can appreciate its subtle refinement up close, a reminder of America's budding industrial artistry.