Pressed Glass: A Gilded Age Marvel
During the mid-1800s, the Gilded Age heralded a new era in glassware production. Pressed glass, or "pattern glass," was born, a result of innovative glass pressing machines that allowed manufacturers to replicate elaborate designs at a faster rate and lower cost. This development provided the middle class with a budget-friendly alternative to the exclusive cut glass that was a symbol of the wealthy.
Despite being a cheaper alternative, pressed glass was far from being labeled as "cheap." It earned a cherished place in many households, its inherent charm and affordability making it a popular choice.
Depression Glass: A Beacon of Color in Economic Hardship
Transitioning into the early 20th century, we encounter the Great Depression - an era of economic hardship that touched every household. It's during this time that depression glass made its appearance and became an iconic symbol of the era. This vibrantly colored glassware, available in an array of hues such as pink, green, blue, and amber, was a direct result of manufacturers optimizing their production processes to cut costs. Consequently, twelve-piece dinnerware sets were made available for under two dollars, a remarkably affordable price even by the standards of the day. Companies, realizing the low-cost appeal of Depression glass, used it as a tool to retain customers during the economic recession. These pieces were often distributed for free or at nominal prices as part of promotional campaigns tied to everyday products like oatmeal or detergent, or given away at movie theaters and gas stations. Consumers, intent on economizing, took advantage of these promotions, gradually amassing complete dinnerware sets over time by collecting these promotional items.
As we look at depression glass today, it's become a cherished collectible. The once seen negatives, air bubbles, molding flaws, and inconsistent coloring have turned into signs of authenticity, adding to its appeal and historical significance. Collecting depression glass involves keen knowledge about its various colors and patterns. Popular patterns include Royal Lace, Mayfair, American Sweetheart, and Cameo, with the pink and green pieces being the most sought after.
Glassware Collecting
Both pressed glass and depression glass offer a vibrant journey through time, their charm and historical significance making them appealing to collectors worldwide. Each piece, whether it's from the Gilded Age or the Great Depression, reflects the aesthetic trends and socioeconomic circumstances of its time. From its ornate patterns to its colorful charm, these glassware types are true time capsules, reminding us of society's resilience and ability to find beauty even in the most challenging times.
Illuminating The Way Forward with Light Provisions
We initially conceived the design of these candle glasses in 2019, driven by our appreciation for vintage glassware—specifically from the Depression Era—and the elegance of Nordic-style design. These glasses are made from lead-free crystal and each one is hand-blown into an individual mold. As a result of this artisanal process, minor variations in weight and wall thickness occur, lending a unique charm and distinctiveness to each piece.
Our objective was to create something that blends vintage and contemporary aesthetics, serving as both a radiant vessel for our hand-poured candles and a timeless heirloom for cocktails.
*Reference photos provided with permission from Found Yesterday Thrift. We highly recommend checking out their beautifully curated Etsy and Instagram pages.
