Blue tumbler, 1820-1840

This cobalt-blue tumbler received its shape and paneled pattern from a full-sized mold. The glassmaker would blow a gather of glass into a metal mold, expanding the glass until it pressed against the interior relief of the mold. He would then withdraw the glass to cut and finish the upper rim by hand. The dark blue color was created by adding cobalt to the silica from which the glass was made.

Mold-blown glass
Gift of Geoffrey C. Blunk, Springfield, IL (701995)

Food Service | Glass

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96