Artistic Glassware (Glassware)

Artistic glassware was a symbol of luxury in Europe and Asia, that is before America was an independent country. When America was founded, luxury was rare, but throughout the history of this country. You will find that art and beauty have been a part of life even during those harsh living conditions. No matter how harsh life is or was American it is always good to find a way to bring beautiful things into the home.

There many uniquely American collection of artistic glassware that might not be as elegant, delicate, or beautiful as some other collections, but it could celebrate the American spirit. These works could include examples of artistic glassware that are a little cruder and not of the same quality as European glassware. However, this glassware demonstrates how Americans beautified their homes during the harsh times of WWI and the depression. They would show that art and beauty are a part of American life, and not something reserved for the privileged few.

Depression Glass

Depression glass is the most collected American artistic glassware. Depression glass was poor-quality glassware made during the 1930 s and 1940 s. Cheap and could be purchased at the five-and-dime. It was even often given away as a premium. You could get plates for buying groceries, cups, and saucers in oatmeal or laundry soap. You could get other pieces for starting a bank account or getting your oil changed. It was just a way of life back then.

Even though depression glass was cheap, of poor quality, and easily obtainable. It was also beautiful. At a time when people could barely afford to keep body and soul together, they collected these beautiful pink, green, or blue pieces of artistic glassware. You will not find many of these pieces around anymore, because the quality was so poor, they are collectible items should you find some.

Milk Glass

In 1905, the Fenton glass company opened. They created a number of patterns and designs of glassware. One of the more collectible and common know is milk glass. Milk glass pieces are white with a hobnail texture and the openings have a ruffled appearance.

Some milk glass have a faint blue cast, similar to skim milk.

The Fenton glass company made milk glasses through the depression and war years by manufacturing practical items, such as mixing bowls. They started to produce milk glass and other artistic glassware in the 1950 s. These things are still being produced, and even newer ones are collectibles.