"Rock Crystal" Vase 1889

This vase, now at the Art Institute of Chicago, was crafted by Thomas Webb & Sons, using a technique that mimics carved rock crystal. The glass is deeply cut and polished, giving it a weighty, substantial feel despite its transparency. It’s made through a labor-intensive process, where layers of glass are built up and then meticulously carved away. This subtractive process reveals the intricate design, here featuring swimming fish amidst swirling waves. The vase reflects a Victorian-era fascination with luxury and exoticism, but it also speaks to the skill of the glassworkers. The technique, while seemingly straightforward, requires years of training to master. This kind of specialized craftsmanship was highly valued, though often underpaid, in the industrializing world of the 19th century. Consider this vase as more than just a decorative object. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the complex relationship between art, labor, and materials.