Fox Den Findings: Using Early American Pressed Glass in Decor

Saturday 8 August 2015

Using Early American Pressed Glass in Decor

Early American Pressed Glass (EAPG) is so interesting to study and collect! These pieces come in many colors and required craftsmanship to produce. Molds were created by artists who worked for various glass companies. Some favorites are Dugan, and Northwood. Bill Edwards and Mike Carwile have published many books on this "pattern glass" or pressed glass. Their work helps the collector identifying the pattern of a piece, and often when and where it was made. See Standard Encylcopedia of Pressed Glass.

Pressed Glass was made between 1860 and 1930. After that, less expensive glass was mass produced. Many people collect this later glass, too, and refer to it as "depression glass" because it was made during that era.

This glass basket is an example of EAPG. It was produced by Dugan in the early 1900's and the pattern name is "Tavern." Sometimes these baskets are referred to as bride's baskets because they were often given as gifts to the bride. They come in many sizes. This one shown here is quite large, standing around 15" tall. It has characteristic and distinguishing air bubbles and straw marks from the factory production process. To me, such "flaws" make each one unique, with its own beauty marks. These baskets make great Easter displays, but can be used in many decors for many purposes, including a flower arrangement.They refract light rays beautifully!