Worth its weight in… glass?

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The Glass Sale brings together works that chart the artistry and ingenuity of glassmakers across centuries. Representing every period of glass production, the sale offers not only beautiful objects but also stories of craftsmanship, innovation, and history embedded in each piece.

The earliest examples featured in this auction date back to the 18th century, a pivotal era for glassmaking in Britain. The Baluster wine glass (lot 3) embodies the hallmarks of early 18th century design; its deep grey tone and heaviness of design reflect the recent technical advancements and aesthetic preferences of the era. This style of glass was made possible by the introduction of George Ravenscroft’s ‘Flint’ glass conceived at the end of the 17th century, which began to introduce lead to the raw composition of the glass batch. Resulting in the grey, heavy, and strong material which continued to flourish through the century.

^{A baluster wine glass (£150-250)}

As we move further into the 18th century within the sale, the collection of air-twist wine glasses (Lot 12) offers a fascinating contrast. These elegant glasses demonstrate how glassmakers responded to external pressures, in this case, taxation. In 1746, under George II, the Glass Excise Tax was introduced, charging duty according to the weight of glass. This significant legislation forced craftsmen to rethink their methods. The introduction of the air-twist stem was not merely decorative; it was a practical solution to create lighter glasses which were more financially viable for the glassmakers.

^{A group of seven air-twist wine glasses (£200-300)}

The story of 18th century glass is not just one of beauty but of resilience and ingenuity. Taxes, shifting fashions, and technological innovation all shaped the industry, leaving us with objects that today serve as tangible records of their time. For collectors and enthusiasts, the ability to trace these developments in design and manufacture adds another layer of value and intrigue.

This auction celebrates not just the glass itself, but the legacy of those who made it. From the heavy, Baluster wine glasses to the refined and resourceful air-twist glasses, each lot is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of craftsmanship. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply captivated by the artistry of glass, the sale offers a unique opportunity to connect with centuries of history through objects that continue to inspire.

^{A group of seven air-twist wine glasses (£200-300)} 

Reflecting on how these developments affect the market, glasses of the early 18th century are highly collectable, particularly those referred to as Heavy Baluster glasses. These pieces, prized for their deep grey colour, substantial weight, and impressive scale, are sought after for their rarity and presence – produced at a time when makers where not penalised for the object’s weight. They were also completely at odds with what had come before in the 17th century, when Façon de Venise glass, the light and delicate output manufactured across Europe, dominated the market.

Such earlier wares, often too fragile to withstand engraving, embodied refinement but lacked the robust versatility that flint glass provided. The invention of flint glass in London was therefore a watershed moment, transforming the durability, brilliance, and artistic possibilities of British glass. It revolutionised the market, creating a bold new aesthetic that remains celebrated and collected nearly 300 years later.

Tuesday 28 October | 10am

alexfroggatt@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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