Plate 1870 - 1890

This glass plate was made by Adams and Company, though we are uncertain of the date. The regular pattern of raised circles across its surface speaks to a moment of industrialization and the rise of consumer culture. Glassware like this plate, made by companies such as Adams and Company, was mass-produced. It could be found in the homes of the growing middle class. Here, form follows function: the plate is designed to be useful, and beautiful, with its intricate design that catches the light. Yet, unlike handcrafted pieces, its value lies not in the uniqueness of the maker's touch but in its affordability and availability. The plate reflects a shift in social values, where mass production and consumption began to shape daily life. Understanding this plate requires us to delve into economic history, studying the rise of industrial manufacturing and consumerism. Research into period advertisements and company records could tell us more about its original context and intended audience. The meaning of even a simple object like this is contingent on the social and institutional forces that shaped its production and use.