Mahogany Century

18th Century English Glassware

In 18th century America, a flourishing household has within its walls, furniture and silverware made in America itself. Mahogany tables were commissioned from New York, exquisite Chippendale chairs imported from Philadelphia and exclusive silverware and cutlery brought directly from Massachusetts. However, when it came to seeking fine drinking glassware, America had to turn to England, as stemware was not yet manufactured until much later in the century.

During the entire 18th century, fine glass was produced in vast amounts in England. Materials such as lead crystal or flint, was first commissioned by George Ravenscroft in 1676 by combining potash and lead oxide in a batch made of silica. These flint glasses were an instantaneous hit, and coveted for their lucidity and immense beauty. Ravenscroft early works however, were flawed, as his glasses began to breakdown due to fragility. This was quickly rectified, and Ravenscroft proceeded to better his designs and make, resulting in glassware of unsurpassed beauty.

The English-made flint glass was predisposed as weighty, more sturdy and deflective than the unleaded soda glass used vastly around the world. Flint glass continued to be revered, and highly prized by connoisseurs. Because of its weight, flint glasses tend to possess more resonance; and make a beautiful sound when lightly tapped by a fork. In comparison, a soda glass just gives out a loud 'thudding' sound. It is interesting to note that many high quality flint, German and Venetian glassware mimicked the exterior of rock crystal. This is why we utilize the term crystal when referring to fine glassware.

Drinking glassware in the 18th century was rendered in varying dimensions and silhouettes. They usually possess bowls, and smaller in capabilities compared to more contemporary counterparts. Some others however, were by design much larger, and used for beer, stout or in ceremonial proceedings. Size notwithstanding, Georgian glassware was always remarkably designed, with dimensions that are congruent.

Glassware made by the English in the 18th century echoes the augmentation of a consumer-based culture in England. For each drink presented, the trend-cognizant buyer would use a different glass style. Some of the more fashionable silhouettes were those used for cordials, ale and wines. In fact, special glassware was used as tumblers and toastmaster glasses. Toastmaster glassware possesses dense bowls that housed an illusory amount of liquids, so that the toastmaster appears to be drinking a hefty amount whilst making toasts. This is also to guarantee that the toastmaster reaches home safely and not drunk.

Well into the 18th century, numerous household items were rendered in glass. Household glassware comprised dessert and sweetmeat glasses, candle and taper sticks and salvers.

The 18th century was also an era where a lot of drinking commenced, and decanters were a great necessity. They range in several sizes, from a capacity for a quarter bottle, and all the way up to housing eight bottles, known as the 'Methuselah' decanter. These decanters were purchased not just because of convenience, but also for their intricate designs and workmanship. Rare examples include enameled decanters produced by the Beilby family in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and James Giles's gilded ones.

Later on, decanter producers promoted decanters for specific beverages, which were then labeled as port, sherry, claret, ale and Madeira. The accompanying drinking glassware was also exquisitely done. But that, is another story.