Cosmetic jar 1874 - 1875

This cosmetic jar, made by the Barnard Brothers, features a combination of cut glass and intricately worked metal. The glass base is molded with a diamond pattern, catching the light and adding visual texture. The metalwork, likely silver or a similar alloy, drapes over the top and sides of the jar with dense, flowing patterns. Notice the contrast between the sharp, geometric glass and the fluid, organic metalwork. This juxtaposition speaks to the values of the era, where both machine-made and hand-crafted elements were prized. The cosmetic jar highlights the divisions of labor and specializations of skills typical of the period. The glass component may have been manufactured, while the metalwork demanded a silversmith's expert touch. It's this combination of diverse processes that gives the jar its distinctive character, challenging any strict separation of art and craft.