Cut leaded crystal has three distinguishing characteristics: a bell-like ring when gently tapped with the finger, clarity and brilliance unmatched by pressed or molded imitations, and weight noticeably greater than the same sized piece made of unleaded glass. America's Brilliant cut glass is appropriately named, for that is literally what it is. The cutting is brilliant because it is sharp and deep, reflecting light from highly polished surfaces. It is deep because it was made from a leaded crystal that was beautiful in its clarity even though thick enough to be cut in high relief. Imaginative designers improved upon traditional motifs, arranging them in varying ways to provide for optimum reflective surfaces. American Brilliant Period cut glass was the end product of talented, resourceful craftsmen who capitalized on new glass technology, using new cutting methods made possible with electric powered cutting tools - all at a time when beautiful handmade articles were more appreciated than their machine-made counterparts.
Dimensions
7ʺW × 7ʺD × 3ʺH
Period
Early 20th Century
Condition Notes
Wear is consistent with age and use.
Styles
Traditional
Place of Origin
United States of America
Materials
Crystal
