Lamp Reflector 1730 - 1785

This glass lamp reflector was made in the 18th century by Henry William Stiegel, a German-American glassmaker. Stiegel was an interesting figure; he was an entrepreneur who established Manheim, Pennsylvania, as a center for glass production in colonial America. The reflector offers insights into the social and economic landscape of the time. Glassmaking was a skilled trade, and Stiegel's success reflects the growing industrialization and consumer culture of the colonies. The lamp would have been a luxury item, reflecting the aspirations and status of its owner. Looking at this object, we might also consider the environmental impact of early industrial processes and the role of immigrant artisans in shaping American material culture. To gain a richer understanding of this piece, historians consult various sources, including archival records, archaeological finds, and studies of early American decorative arts. The meaning of this object lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its historical context.