Tumbler 1882 - 1887

This tumbler, by Hobbs, Brockunier and Company, is a testament to the way everyday objects embody complex structural principles. The glass is dominated by a series of raised circular forms, each a convex bubble that catches and refracts light. This pattern disrupts the smooth, cylindrical form we expect of a drinking glass, creating an almost tactile experience through visual means. It invites the eye to trace each curve, revealing a play of light and shadow that animates the object. The repeating motif can be interpreted through the lens of structuralism, with the individual bubbles acting as modular units, combining to form a cohesive whole. Yet, the imperfections in their arrangement prevents rigid symmetry, suggesting a subtle break from formalized structure. Notice how the regular pattern destabilizes the very function of the glass. Instead of a passive container, it becomes an active participant, reshaping the very substance it holds, and altering our perception of the drink within. It is an object that continuously reinvents our engagement with the everyday.