Creamer 1885 - 1888

Editor: We’re looking at a glass Creamer by Richards and Hartley Flint Glass Co., crafted sometime between 1885 and 1888. It's this delicate, ornate piece, covered in raised bubbles that catch the light. I'm struck by how something so functional can also be so visually intriguing. What historical context shaped the creation of this seemingly simple object? Curator: That's a keen observation. The late 19th century saw an explosion in glass manufacturing, driven by industrial advancements and a growing middle class eager for affordable luxuries. Pieces like this creamer weren't just about utility; they signaled social aspiration. The "hobnail" pattern, as it's known, became incredibly popular. What do you think made it so appealing to consumers at the time? Editor: Perhaps its texture allowed more interaction of light with the piece, indicating higher quality of materials? I imagine the common homeowner might interpret this form differently from today. Curator: Precisely. Beyond affordability, the rise of department stores and mail-order catalogs democratized access to decorative arts. Suddenly, owning a fancy creamer became within reach. However, keep in mind who was involved in the actual labor. Are you familiar with how the industry’s workforce at that time? Editor: Hmm, I'm not. Was it fraught with harsh working conditions? Curator: Glassmaking was indeed hazardous. The social history of this seemingly quaint object reveals disparities in class and labor, raising questions about whose comfort and aesthetic desires it served. It encourages us to ask how power structures influence both the production and consumption of art, even in everyday items. Editor: That’s a fascinating point. It makes you reconsider something so commonplace. Thanks for shedding light on how larger social factors influenced production and perception. Curator: And thank you for that initial keen observation. Looking at the context helps one understand the item so much more!