Tumbler 18th-19th century

This is an anonymously made tumbler, its creation date is unknown, and it’s made of glass. The tumbler, a common drinking vessel, carries with it the weight of history and culture, reflecting both everyday life and broader societal forces. Consider the hands that have held similar vessels throughout history. Whose labor produced the glass? Who drank from it? The anonymity of the artist invites us to consider the collective nature of craft and the often-unacknowledged contributions of marginalized communities. The simplicity of the design could imply a time of hardship, of the laboring class, or perhaps, in its simplicity, a quiet resistance to consumer culture. The glass is not precious, but it is necessary. It is a reminder of the objects we use and often take for granted. It holds the potential for both sustenance and reflection.