Cased Glass has been in existence for of a number of centuries, in many countries including China, Germany, and Bohemia, yet the best pieces incorporated the fine use of hand cutting tools by English glassmakers beginning in 1825. The effect was quite decorative and highlighted the creative expression and inordinate skill of the artist. French cased glass was produced in smaller quantities until the late 1800's, at which time the engraving wheel almost completely eliminated the hand crafted elements. Hydrofluoric acid was used to remove unwanted glass in combination with the engraving wheel, yet it was the meticulous and delicate hand sculpturing techniques that produced some of the most outstanding pieces of art.
Cased glass consists of two or more layers of different colors with a lovely satin-like feel and appearance, engraved by hand. The process may be created by
- blowing a color inside a piece that is already made -or-
- layering different colored glass over each other.
In each case, the multiple layers of glass are fused together thus creating a uniquely beautiful piece.
Also known as Cameo Glass, a cased glass Thomas Webb 4.5 " vase recently listed on e-bay for $1000., a result of its rarity and artistic decorative qualities.
Thomas Webb & Sons (1837) from Stourbridge, Worcestershire, England produced lovely examples of this art form with pieces very much sought after and highly collectible. Happy Hunting!
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