Flask 1840 - 1860

This blue glass flask was produced by Kentucky Glass Works between 1850 and 1855, and it's rich with symbols of American identity. Dominating the surface, an eagle spreads its wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch. This potent emblem, rooted in ancient Rome, signifies power and governance, yet also peace. Note the stars above the eagle, each a spark of a collective dream. The eagle, as an archetype of strength and freedom, echoes through centuries, from the standards of Roman legions to the crests of empires. What is interesting is to see how the symbol of the eagle morphed from representing imperial power into the emblem of American liberty. This transformation speaks to our collective desire for freedom and the continuous reinterpretation of symbols. This flask is more than just a vessel; it's a powerful condensation of national pride and shared ideals. Its iconography engages us on a deep, almost subconscious level. The emotional weight of these emblems highlights their enduring appeal and cyclical resurgence across history.