Baltimore Glass Works
Flask
1844-1854
Physical Qualities
Glass, 7 3/4 x 3 5/8 x 2 1/4 in. (19.7 x 9.2 x 5.7 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of Philip B. Perlman
Object Number
1960.41.38
The large star on the side of this pitcher is a sixteenpoint Hobstar, formed by overlaid triangles. The sparkling reflection of this pitcher is created by deep incisions in the heavy, lead glass body. To make cut glass, artisans hold smooth glass shapes called “blanks” against various rotating, machinepowered metal or stone wheels. That training and the popularity of star motifs arrived in America with increased European immigration. Pointed-star motifs, like sixteen-pointed example on the side of this pitcher, are common in American “Brilliant Cut” glass and may have originated in Bohemia, present-day Czech Republic, the center of glass production in 19th-century Europe.
Inscribed: 'Resurgam' (See description)