A PAIR OF IRISH OVAL MIRRORS, 19th century, the metal frames set with alternate clear and blue glass facetted stud in 18th Century fashion. 79 x 54cm Provenance: Purchased from John Farrington Antiques, Dublin by the present owners. Whilst there was glass manufacture in Waterford before the 18th century, the countys production took on its infamous name with the establishment of the Waterford Glasshouse in 1783. The company was founded by George and William Penrose, two businessmen who wished to take advantage of Irelands free trade agreement with Britain. They poured £10,000 pounds into the venture and hired master craftsmen from England to produce a glass known for its absolute clarity. Sadly, the economic benefits could not last and in 1788 an act was passed that forbade the export of glass from Ireland. However, the local Irish market was strong enough to keep the glasshouse afloat until 1851 when high tax rates on flint glass forced Waterford Glass to close, joining the many that had already folded before it. The glasshouse was offered for sale but, viewed as a hopeless investment, there were no takers. Despite being known for its smaller tableware, Waterford Glass did flirt with the making of mirrors, cutting the glass jewels that are seen to border 18th and 19th century pieces. This pair beautifully emulates the Waterford style, the alternating white and blue glass being a popular pattern, although variations on the colour are known. Such decoration offered an alternative to those who wished to view themselves in a slightly more elaborate setting. Helena Carlyle
A PAIR OF IRISH OVAL MIRRORS, 19th century, the metal frames set with alternate clear and blue glass facetted stud in 18th Century fashion. 79 x 54cm Provenance: Purchased from John Farrington Antiques, Dublin by the present owners. Whilst there was glass manufacture in Waterford before the 18th century, the countys production took on its infamous name with the establishment of the Waterford Glasshouse in 1783. The company was founded by George and William Penrose, two businessmen who wished to take advantage of Irelands free trade agreement with Britain. They poured £10,000 pounds into the venture and hired master craftsmen from England to produce a glass known for its absolute clarity. Sadly, the economic benefits could not last and in 1788 an act was passed that forbade the export of glass from Ireland. However, the local Irish market was strong enough to keep the glasshouse afloat until 1851 when high tax rates on flint glass forced Waterford Glass to close, joining the many that had already folded before it. The glasshouse was offered for sale but, viewed as a hopeless investment, there were no takers. Despite being known for its smaller tableware, Waterford Glass did flirt with the making of mirrors, cutting the glass jewels that are seen to border 18th and 19th century pieces. This pair beautifully emulates the Waterford style, the alternating white and blue glass being a popular pattern, although variations on the colour are known. Such decoration offered an alternative to those who wished to view themselves in a slightly more elaborate setting. Helena Carlyle
Try LotSearch and its premium features for 7 days - without any costs!
Be notified automatically about new items in upcoming auctions.
Create an alert
