Decanter 18th-19th century

This blue glass decanter was expertly crafted by an anonymous artist using techniques that showcase the transformative power of heat and human skill. The making of this decanter likely involved a combination of glassblowing and molding. Molten glass, manipulated with tools and breath, was shaped into its elegant form. The vertical ribs that run along its body were probably achieved using a mold, pressing the pliable glass against a textured surface. Notice the rich color, likely achieved by adding metallic oxides to the molten glass, and how the light plays across the surface, accentuating the form and texture. The creation of glass objects like this one reflects a long history of skilled labor, from the glassmakers themselves to the miners who extracted the raw materials. Appreciating this decanter means recognizing the collaboration between the artisan, the material, and the broader social context of its creation. So the next time you see a glass object, consider the complex processes and histories that have shaped it.