Bowl 18th-19th century

This bowl, made of glass, is an example of the everyday objects that shape our lives. Though the maker is unknown, the bowl still speaks to the identities and histories of those who have used it. Consider the labor involved in its production. Glassmaking, historically a skilled trade, reflects broader issues of class and industrialization. Who made this bowl, and under what conditions? Perhaps it was mass-produced in a factory, or maybe it was crafted individually, reflecting the artisan’s skill. Imagine this bowl on a table. It’s a vessel that contains nourishment, sustenance, and community. It reflects the rituals of daily life, the sharing of meals, and the passing down of traditions. Who ate from it? What stories could it tell? This simple bowl can serve as a profound reminder of the personal and societal connections we all share.