A Luminous Legacy
Uranium, a radioactive element recognisable for its greenish-yellow hue, holds a curious place in the decorative arts of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Though now primarily associated with the nuclear industry, it was once a fashionable additive in glassmaking, giving rise to an extraordinary genre of decorative objects prized for their otherworldly glow.
Uranium Glass: A Luminescent Wonder
Uranium is best known in the arts for its role in creating uranium or “vaseline” glass. The term derives from its greasy, translucent appearance under certain lighting conditions. What sets uranium glass apart, however, is its ability to fluoresce vividly under ultraviolet light — glowing in shades of yellow or green, depending on the type and amount of uranium used.
The material became particularly popular in the Victorian era and into the early 20th century. It was used to produce both decorative and practical objects, from vases, figurines, and beads to everyday tableware such as cups, bowls, and plates. Despite its radioactive associations, the actual quantities of uranium used in production were generally very small, posing little risk to users.
Val Saint Lambert and Uranium Glass
Belgium’s Val Saint Lambert, established in 1826 and long celebrated as one of Europe’s finest glassmakers, was among the leading producers of uranium glass in the early 20th century. Their creations ranged from elegant vases and tableware to sculptural pieces, each distinguished by remarkable craftsmanship and the captivating glow of uranium.
Val Saint Lambert’s work demonstrates both technical ingenuity and a refined artistic vision, elevating uranium glass beyond novelty into the realm of luxury decorative art. Today, these pieces are particularly prized by collectors, both for their rarity and for their luminous reminder of an experimental and innovative era in glassmaking.
Enduring Legacy
Although the production of uranium glass declined sharply after World War II — as uranium became restricted for atomic research — its legacy endures. The glowing pieces of Val Saint Lambert and other makers stand as radiant testaments to the creativity of the period, embodying the intersection of science, industry, and artistry.
Far from being forgotten curiosities, uranium glass objects continue to fascinate collectors and historians alike, their unmistakable glow ensuring they remain some of the most evocative treasures of the decorative arts.
