Claret Glass c. 1824 - 1840

This striking green glass was made in the United States by the Jersey Glass Company sometime between 1824 and 1862. Its story is entwined with the rise of American industry and the emergence of a distinct national identity. Glassmaking during this period was transformed by technological advancements, shifting from small-scale artisanal shops to large-scale factories. The Jersey Glass Company was at the forefront of this transition, employing innovative techniques to mass-produce glassware for a growing consumer market. Consider the social implications of this shift. No longer the preserve of the wealthy, decorative and functional glassware became accessible to a wider segment of the population. This democratization of luxury reflected broader changes in American society, as the country grappled with issues of class, status, and the pursuit of material wealth. By consulting historical records, business archives, and period advertisements, we can uncover a deeper understanding of the claret glass as a symbol of America's evolving social landscape.