Antique Bristol blue and green glass decanters

Bristol glass is a type of glassware that was produced in Bristol, England in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is known for its high quality, intricate designs, and vibrant colours. Bristol glass is typically made from a type of glass called 'lead glass', which is composed mainly of silica, lime, lead oxide, and other ingredients. This type of glass has a high refractive index, which gives it a bright, sparkling appearance and makes it particularly suitable for intricate engraving and cutting.

Bristol blue glass is a deep, rich shade of blue, which was achieved by adding cobalt oxide to more... the glass mixture. Bristol green glass is a pale or medium green colour, which was achieved by adding iron oxide or copper oxide to the glass mixture.

The glass was produced by several different manufacturers in Bristol, and the glassware was often exported to other countries, particularly to the American colonies. Bristol glassware was popular for its intricate designs, which often incorporated delicate floral patterns, scrolling vines, and other decorative elements. Some Bristol glassware also featured enamelled or painted decorations.

Bristol glass production declined in the 19th century due to the increased competition from other glass-making centers, like Bohemia and the rising popularity of glassware made from cheaper materials like pressed glass. Today, Bristol glass is considered an important part of the history of glassmaking and is highly valued by collectors of antique glass. less...

The earliest decanters date from the late seventeenth century and were made from blown moulded glass.

They were used to serve wine at a time when there was a move towards less formal dining procedures and the reduced reliance on servants and waiters.

The 1745 Excise Tax caused manufacturers to make decanters lighter in weight. The tax benefited the industry in Ireland where it did not apply. When the tax was repealed in 1845, a heavier gauge was reverted to.

In the second half of the eighteenth century blue, green and amethyst coloured decanters were made.

Decanters often sat on more... silver bottle coasters with baize bases (some even on castors) and could be 'pushed' around the dining table without making scratches or requiring serving staff. less...