Calabash Bottle, 1850-1855

Summary

Glass factories in America began producing inexpensive, mold-formed flasks in the early 1800s. These figured flasks, often decorated with symbols of national pride or political or cultural affiliation, appealed to America's common man. Nineteenth-century Americans revered George Washington -- Revolutionary War hero, President and Father of His Country. Washington's likeness adorns at least seventy-two flask designs -- more than any other person.

Glass factories in America began producing inexpensive, mold-formed flasks in the early 1800s. These figured flasks, often decorated with symbols of national pride or political or cultural affiliation, appealed to America's common man. Nineteenth-century Americans revered George Washington -- Revolutionary War hero, President and Father of His Country. Washington's likeness adorns at least seventy-two flask designs -- more than any other person.

Artifact

Bottle

Date Made

1850-1855

Place of Creation

United States 

 On Exhibit

at Greenfield Village in Davidson-Gerson Gallery of Glass

Object ID

60.10.69

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Glass (Material)
Mold-blown glass

Technique

Glassblowing
Blow molding

Color

Blue

Dimensions

Height: 8.75 in

Width: 5.5 in

Length: 4.25 in

Weight: 15 oz

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