Description: American, Brilliant period cut leaded crystal covered punch bowl. Hexagon shaped finial with a low pedestal foot.

History: High labor cost inherent in the manufacture of cut glass has always made it a luxury item. Unfortunately, until late in the nineteenth century, American glass houses found it difficult to compete against their European counterparts. In the 18th century, many people saw an opportunity for a new life and, with any luck, a chance to make their own fortunes by emigrating to the United States and bringing their trade with them.In 1771, German-born Henry William Stiegel founded the American Flint Glass Manufactory in Manheim, Pennsylvania and began producing the first examples of American cut glass. Elaborate patterns that rivaled any created by European counterparts emerged. The T.G. Hawkes Company of Corning, New York won several grand prizes at the 1889 Paris Exposition for its Grecian and Chrysanthemum patterns. Only four years later at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, the Libbey Glass Company of Toledo won top honors for its treasured Columbia and Isabella patterns. International acclaim caused a surge in demand for American cut glass wares. Before long, important commissions were coming from the most prominent figures of the time. Among the most notable were a complete table service for the White House and presentation pieces for the presidents of Mexico and Cuba and King Edward VII of England. American cut glass companies were now producing items that were superior to any in the world, items that embodied a standard of quality and craftsmanship that, even today, have yet to be rivaled.

Provenance: Helen & Dr. Roland Kohen, Miami, FL

Dimensions: Weight (Pounds & Ounces) = 10 | Height(in) = 11.5 | Width(in) = 10 | Depth(in) = 10

Size of Artwork(in): 11.5 x 10 x 10"

Artist Name: American

Medium: Glass

Circa: Circa 1940

This piece is in excellent condition. No flaws found; no dents, chips, or scratches were observed.