Plate 1870 - 1890

This plate was made by Challinor, Taylor and Company sometime between 1866 and 1891, out of pressed glass. The swirling pattern in the center, combined with the lattice edge, creates a striking visual effect. This wasn't achieved by hand-cutting or blowing the glass, but instead by pressing molten glass into a mold. This technique, developed in the 19th century, allowed for mass production of glassware. Pressed glass democratized access to decorative objects. Before this, intricate glass designs were luxury items, but suddenly became available to a much wider market. While lacking the artistic touch of hand-blown glass, objects like this plate show how industrial processes can still result in beautiful and complex designs. It serves as a reminder that the story of art isn't just about individual genius; it's also about labor, technology, and the changing landscape of consumption.