Kelkglas met twee putti op wolken c. 1760 - 1780

This elegant glass, of unknown origin, features two cherubic putti etched onto its surface. But beyond its charming decoration, consider the artistry of its making. Molten glass, coaxed into shape through blowing and manipulation, has been a skilled endeavor since Roman times. The glass maker had to skillfully gather the molten material from the furnace, and blow air through a long pipe, gradually inflating and shaping the form. See how the stem is articulated with applied glass globules. This requires careful timing and heat control. Finally, the delicate engraving of the putti is achieved through abrasive cutting, further enhancing the glass's allure. Glassware like this speaks volumes about the rise of specialized labor, and the growing demand for luxury goods. So, the next time you raise a glass, remember the journey of its creation, and the countless hands that shaped its form and meaning.