Flask, 1846-1850

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, appealed to America's common man. This flask pairs Mexican War hero General Zachary Taylor with America's founding father, George Washington. The inscription around Taylor's image refers to his order to fire more artillery rounds -- and alluded to the flask's alcoholic content.

Glass factories in America began producing inexpensive, mold-formed flasks in the early 1800s. These figured flasks, often decorated with symbols of national pride, appealed to America's common man. This flask pairs Mexican War hero General Zachary Taylor with America's founding father, George Washington. The inscription around Taylor's image refers to his order to fire more artillery rounds -- and alluded to the flask's alcoholic content.

Artifact

Flask (Bottle)

Date Made

1846-1850

Place of Creation

United States 

 On Exhibit

at Greenfield Village in Davidson-Gerson Gallery of Glass

Object ID

2001.0.115.43

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Glass (Material)
Mold-blown glass

Technique

Glassblowing
Blow molding

Color

Blue

Dimensions

Height: 8.25 in

Width: 5.75 in

Length: 2.75 in

Weight: 1.5 lb

Inscriptions

pressed on front: THE FATHER OF HIS COUNTRY pressed on back: A LITTLE MORE GRAPE CAPTAIN BRAGG

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