Katharine Coleman MBE | The Art of Engraving

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Katharine Coleman MBE is one of Britain’s most accomplished contemporary glass engravers, recognised for her exceptional command of traditional copper wheel techniques and her exploration of light, form, and illusion. She studied at Morley College under Peter Dreiser, where she developed a deep understanding of engraving that continues to define her work today. Her practice reflects both technical precision and artistic sensitivity, with a particular interest in the visual relationship between the inner and outer surfaces of glass. Widely exhibited across Europe, the United States, and beyond, her work is held in numerous public collections, and she was awarded an MBE in 2009 for services to glass engraving.

Collectors familiar with Coleman’s work will appreciate her skill as a maker, but not perhaps as familiar with her discerning eye for acquiring glass. Forming part of The Glass Sale, her collection reflects a deep appreciation for fine engraved glass, and we are delighted to offer it for sale.

A highlight is the exquisitely engraved glass plate by J & L Lobmeyr, a maker long associated with excellence in European glass. The matched plate can be seen in the Corning Museum of Glass collection. The plate is one of two fine pieces of J & L Lobmeyr included as part of the collection.

^{J & L Lobmeyr engraved glass plate (£800-£1,200)}

The collection also includes two interesting 19^th century rummers, one engraved with a shipwright’s yard. This detailed and characterful scene is an interesting variation on the typical nautical subjects shown, enhanced by previously held in the Ian Robertson Collection. Equally, the inclusion of the ship’s name ‘Caroline’ on the second rummer is also a distinctive and uncommon subject.

^{An engraved glass rummer (£200-£300)}

Stourbridge is arguably one of the most important centres for glassmaking at the end of the 19^th century and naturally forms part of the Coleman collection. A natural pair, the claret jugs included in the sale display fine engraving typical of Midlands production of 150 years ago.

^{A pair of engraved glass claret jugs (£200-£300)}

Engraved for the 1969 Prince of Wales Investiture, the Thomas Webb and Sons engraved goblet is the only piece from the collection dating to the 20^th  century. Numbered one from an edition of one hundred, it stands as both a commemorative object and rarity from this edition.

^{A Thomas Webb & Sons 1969 Prince of Wales Investiture engraved glass goblet (£100-£150)}

Collectively, these works provide a fascinating insight into the collecting eye of a leading engraver, united by a shared emphasis on craftsmanship, clarity, and enduring beauty.

Tuesday 14 April | 10am

alexfroggatt@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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