Water Pitcher 1884 - 1893

This water pitcher was made by the New England Glass Company, sometime between 1818 and 1888. Notice the almost symmetrical swelling of the glass form, which has a dual existence as both surface and structure. The translucent glass, fading from dark to light, gives an ethereal and almost imperceptible presence. This interplay between form and light creates a sense of depth and movement, despite the object's static nature. Its undulating surface invites you to trace the curves and hollows. This subtle yet complex interplay of form and texture, combined with the reflective nature of the glass, challenges our perception. It is a utilitarian object, but also a vessel for exploring the semiotics of light and space. This destabilization of function transforms the pitcher into a study of ever-changing refractions.