Green Crackle Glass Vase ~ Vintage American Art Glass ~

Collectibles : Decorative : Glass,American Art Glass,Crackle Glass,Blown Glass,West Virginia

 

An exceptionally fine example of West Virginia hand blown American Art Glass ~ mid period 1950's a pinched emerald green vase ~ standing 4 1/2"h x 4 1/2" w and in excellent condition

Crackle glass has an uneven surface resembling cracked ice. Also known as ice glass or craquelle, it is sometimes called broc a glaces in France and very similar techniques are called vetro a ghiaccio and vetro corroso in Italy.

Crackle glass is made by taking a gather of molten glass and blowing it into a small bulb, then treating the surface by rolling it on something suitable, before dipping it very swiftly into cold water. This cracks the surface of the glass, which can then be reheated and blown larger to melt the sharp edges and widen the crackle effect. Sometimes another layer of glass is added and the crackle effect is totally enclosed.

The technique requires skill to avoid a complete shattering of the glass and to avoid melting the cracks completely on reheating. It was first developed in Venice in the 16th century, and later in Spain, the Netherlands, England and the USA. Blenko Glass, in the USA, produced a wide variety of exotic shapes in crackle glass over a long period.

Although numerous companies were known to have manufactured crackle glass in the United States, a mere handful produced the vast majority available. Bischoff, Blenko, Kanawha, Pilgrim, and Rainbow were five well-known companies all located in West Virginia. Blenko is the only company that still produces crackle glass today. Pilgrim Glass Company closed in March of 2002.

**Thank you for finding our little shop ~ do pardon any glare from my picture taking,all items are described to the best of our ability ,This listing is only for the green crackle vase as described ~ any other items seen in the picture are there for display purposes and listed separately for sale ~

Item ID: R0816