Crafting Clarity: British Glassware in the Age of Enlightenment

Crafting Clarity: British Glassware in the Age of Enlightenment

82 products
82 products

During the 18th century, glassmaking in Britain experienced significant developments and innovations. One significant development during the 18th century was the invention of lead crystal by George Ravenscroft. Lead crystal, also known as flint glass, was a type of glass that contained a high percentage of lead oxide, which gave it a brilliant sparkle and a distinctive "ring" when tapped. Ravenscroft's lead crystal was highly prized for its clarity and brilliance, and it became a popular choice for luxury glassware, such as drinking glasses, decanters, and chandeliers.

Another notable style of glassware during this period was "façon de Venise," which refers to glassware made in the Venetian style. Venetian glass was highly regarded for its vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and skilled craftsmanship. British glassmakers sought to emulate this style by adopting Venetian techniques and designs.

Float glass was also used in mirror production during the 18th century. Thomas Sheraton and Denis Diderot, prominent furniture designers and writers of the time, documented the use of glass in mirrors in their works. Mirrors were considered luxury items, and the use of large sheets of glass in mirror production allowed for more elaborate mirrors to be made, which were highly valued for their decorative and functional purposes.

In addition to Venetian-style glass and lead crystal, British glassmakers during the 18th century also produced a wide range of other glassware, including drinking glasses, vases, bowls, and decorative objects. Glassware was often embellished with intricate engravings, cuttings, and decorative elements, reflecting the prevailing design aesthetics of the time, which included rococo, neoclassical, and chinoiserie styles.

The 18th century was a period of great creativity and innovation in British glassmaking, with glassware being highly valued for its beauty, functionality, and status symbol. Georgian glass, as it is commonly known, continues to be highly collectible and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of 18th-century decorative arts today.

Bohemian Gilt Beakers
Nicholas Wells Antiques
£450.00
French Opaline Blue Vase
Collection EE20
£1,600.00
Pair of Opaline Glass Vases and Covers
Collection TH10
£POA
Large blown glass bubble door stop
Collection TH10
£1,200.00
An agate glass sweetmeat dish
Collection TH10
£950.00
Pair of French 19th Century Opaline Vases
Nicholas Wells Antiques
£POA
Neo-Classical Ormolu mounted Faceted Glass Vase
Collection CK20
£POA
Lalique Head Up Swan crystal sculpture from 1985, elegantly crafted with detailed wings and smooth neck.
Lalique Head Up Swan
Collection NE10
£POA
Set of 6 Bombay Art Deco Round Mirrors with reeded faux rosewood frames, 100cm diameter, circa 1925 India.
Set of 6 Bombay Art Deco Round Mirrors with reeded faux rosewood frames and original mirror plates.
Set of 6 Bombay Art Deco Round Mirrors
Collection EE20
£POA
Substantial oval giltwood mirror with ornate 19th-century English gold leaf frame, large decorative vintage wall mirror.
Substantial oval giltwood mirror with ornate gold leaf frame reflecting elegant vintage interior decor.
Substantial oval giltwood mirror
Collection CK40
£POA
Pair of Giltwood Wall Mirrors Italy Circa 1880 with gold carved frames, 112cm height and 91.5cm width each.
Pair of Giltwood Wall Mirrors with detailed carved giltwood frame, Italy Circa 1880, 112x91.5 cm size.
Pair of Giltwood Wall Mirrors
Collection EE20
£6,800.00
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