Decanter, 1825-1835

During the early 1800s American glassmakers attempted to imitate expensive cut glass by blowing molten glass into a patterned mold. The mold, made of iron or brass, was hinged to open once the piece had expanded and taken on its decorative design. Hand-finishing or tooling completed the object, which varied in quality depending upon the mold and the skill of the craftsman finishing it. Decanters like this were used to serve wine.

Blown three-mold glass
Gift of Frances S. Ridgely Memorial Fund (1979.23.1)

Food Service | Glass

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96