Quart Decanter 1850 - 1870

This quart decanter was made by Bakewell, Pears and Company, sometime between 1836 and 1882. Crafted from clear glass, it demonstrates the technique of pressing. The body of the decanter has a pattern, which gives the surface visual interest, refracting light and adding to its appeal. The process of glass pressing, invented in the early 19th century, involved using a machine to force molten glass into a mold. This allowed for the mass production of glassware, making it more accessible to a wider range of consumers. The decanter is a great example of the democratization of luxury goods that occurred during the industrial revolution. It represents a shift from handmade, unique items to standardized, machine-made products. This had a huge impact on labor, as skilled glassblowers were replaced by factory workers operating machines. By looking closely at the materials and processes used to create this decanter, we can better understand the social and economic changes that shaped the 19th century. It encourages us to think about the relationship between art, craft, and industrial production.