Wine Glass c. 18th century

This clear glass was made anonymously, and is called simply, Wine Glass. The twisting detail of the stem shows that it has been shaped by a skilled glassblower. Glassblowing is a labor-intensive process. The molten glass must be gathered from a furnace, carefully shaped, and constantly rotated to maintain its symmetry, requiring practice and precision. Note the delicate balance between the bowl, stem, and foot. This isn't just functional design; the glassblower's mastery is on full display here. While we don't know the specific origins of this glass, its existence speaks to broader social and economic factors. Glass production, once a luxury, became increasingly widespread over time. As techniques improved and markets expanded, glass objects became accessible to a wider range of consumers, transforming both dining habits, as well as the nature of human interaction itself. Thinking about the materials and processes used in its creation allows us to appreciate the skilled work and historical context embedded within this seemingly simple glass.