| The Glass Collector News, #4, August 2003 |
The Glass Collector News, #4, August 2003
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In this issue.....
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1. Welcome
2. Is it Cut or Etched?
3. Do you know who made this?
4. August Recipe
5. It's Never too Early
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1) Welcome to this, our fourth Glass Collector newsletter! You are receiving it because you've bought or asked about glass items on TIAS.com. We'll be bringing you informative articles as well as answer any questions you may have about your Glass collection. If you are no longer interested in this topic, simply click the unsubscribe link at the bottom of this newsletter.
To submit questions or other information for publication, please send email to glasshaven@tias.com
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2) Many times I receive requests for identification of a piece of glass and the owners are confused as to whether the design is etched or cut. I hope to remove some of the mystery in this newsletter.
Etching:
Basic etching: designs made using hydrofluoric acid which dissolves glass from the surface while the rest of the item is covered in wax or the entire item can be etched in this manner. When only a part of the glassware is to be etched, that is when the wax or "resist" is used to stop the acid from reaching the parts that are not to be etched. Pure hydrofluoric acid leaves a bright surface; when mixed with sulphuric acid it produces a high gloss on lead glass; if mixed with ammonia, the neutralized acid leaves a frosted or satin finish. An example of satinized glass can be seen here: http://pages.glasshaven.com/8992/PictPage/1921427821.html
Intaglio: When glassware has a design pressed into the bottom of it and is treated with acid to frost the surface, it produces a contrast between the design and the plain glass portion, like this relish dish: http://pages.glasshaven.com/8992/PictPage/1921702233.html
There are a couple of schools of thought on this process; some authorities consider Intaglio to be any design cut below the surface. Personally, I have always considered true intaglio to be the result of acid-based process (which requires much experience and skill to determine the strength of the solution and how long it must be left to get the depth of the design). Whatever the definition, other methods for creating designs which cut below the surface of the glass include the use of engraving wheels or the use of a mold.
Needle etching: machines are used for this process; usual designs are lines, loops, and zigzags for example. "Resist" is also used in this process, only this time; it is applied where the design is to be put on the glassware. A tracing machine follows a pattern; the "needles" remove the wax, which exposes the glass. It is then dipped in an acid solution. Once again, the acid has made the pattern, not the needles. You can see a needle etch here: http://glassmavenhaven.com/cindy/pinkneedleetch2.jpg
Pantograph etching: more advanced than needle etching, they are more intricate using flowers, arches, etc. in the designs. Also machine made.
Plate etching: the most intricate and detailed usually 12 or more people are involved to finish a piece of glass.
The design is etched into steel or copper plate; the wax resist is rubbed into the design on the plate. A strong thin paper is placed over the resist in the design and rubbed into place. The paper is then removed with an alcohol solution and the wax adheres to the goblet.
The transfer is then placed on the piece (sometimes several transfers are needed) then the remainder of the piece not to be etched is covered with wax resist. Workers brush on the wax over every surface that is to remain bright. Then it is etched with acid.
This process produces the most intricate etching designs with the most artistry. Click here to see the Rose Point plate etching: http://pages.glasshaven.com/8992/PictPage/1921755007.html
Double-plate etching: the above process is done twice; usually the piece has a satin medallion in which a small etching is done to enhance it. The first etching puts the satin finish on; the 2nd is done to complete it.
Sand Carving: This is another method of removing glass from the surface. The entire item is covered, except for the area where the design will be. It is then placed in an enclosed area and blasted with particles of sand. Just like with acid, the depth of the design is based on how long the process continues. An example of a Hawkes sand carving is here: http://pages.glasshaven.com/8992/PictPage/1921427751.html
Next issue, I will discuss that various types of Cuttings.
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3) Mystery Items of the Month
Do you recognize the maker of this pitcher? I have found references to this Bluerina being made by Mount Washington and Thomas Webb, but I have not been able to locate this exact item.
http://glassmavenhaven.com/cindy/bluerina.jpg
Do you recognize this gold etch? It has been found on many different Elegant blanks, leading us to believe 1 decorating company did the work. It was speculated to be the work of Silver City. I believe it is a Wild Rose pattern, but have been unsuccessful in tracking this one down.
http://glassmavenhaven.com/cindy/wildrosedesign.jpg
Do you have an item that needs to be identified? Most times, we can help! Just click on this link and register (it's free!) Then post your request for identification. There is a tutorial on how to upload your pictures right from your computer too.
http://www.glassmavenhaven.com/forum/
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4) This is my Penne Bruschetta Recipe, which typically is served on top of Italian bread, but I pour this over Penne Pasta for a main course. If you like Basil & Garlic, this is for you!
4 Cups of Diced plum tomatoes
1/3 Cup of Olive Oil
1/4 Cup-Packed fresh Basil sliced thin
1/3 Cup Balsamic Vinegar
1 Tbsp. minced Garlic (about 3 good size cloves)
1/4 Tsp. black pepper
Combine the above and let stand for at least 15-30 minutes.
1# Penne pasta-cook according to package directions.
As soon as you have about 5 minutes left to cook the pasta, heat a large non-stick skillet (I use an enameled covered cast iron one) over high heat. Once the pan is good and hot pour in the above tomato mixture. Cook until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
Toss with pasta and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy!
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5) It's not too early to start your Christmas shopping! I have many quality glassware items in my store nestled amongst other types of antiques. Please take a moment to browse: http://www.glasshaven.com/
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Thanks for reading. Feel free to forward this to a friend. To subscribe to this newsletter go to http://www.tias.com/subscribe/
Please note that stories and recipes from readers are not
Checked for accuracy. They may be edited prior to publication.
For questions or comments, you can reach us at: Glasshaven@TIAS.com ©1995-2003 TIAS.com Inc.
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