Cup plate c. 1835

This anonymous cup plate was likely made using press-molded glass, a process by which molten glass is impressed into a mold using a plunger. The mold gives shape to the object, while also imprinting a pattern on its surface. Here, a raised floral motif radiates from the center, encircled by bands of fluting and a beaded edge. Mass production made glass like this very affordable. It satisfied America's growing middle class with the trappings of luxury. The result is a paradox: an object that declares its own beauty, yet quietly speaks of its origins in a factory. This little plate reminds us that all objects have a context. By looking closely at how things are made, we gain a richer understanding of their meaning and importance, and break down the perceived hierarchy between art, design, and craft.