In my January 30 post to this blog — https://pastpresentartsandcrafts.wordpress.com/2021/01/30/replicating-an-ancient-form-of-miniature-glass-vessel-an-art-history-experiment/ — I reviewed my experiments with replicating a little understood class of small glass objects created in the Eastern Mediterranean, then part of the Roman Empire, in the 3rd and 4th Centuries. More recently I’ve explored this area further, trying new techniques with blowpipes and mandrels and reinterpreting some of the ancient forms.
One of the most popular types among these ancient miniatures was a narrow one handled jug or pitcher. I recently created a related example of my own in borosilicate glass, using opaque off-white for the body, high density black for the handle, base and rim, and adding a few thin slices of millefiori glass cane for a bit of color. This item can be found in my shop, here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/976317355/lampwork-glass-jug-pendant-on-silver?ref=shop_home_active_1&frs=1
I’ve also begun creating a series of pieces inspired by the ancient miniatures that can be used today in a way perhaps identical to the original intention; that is, as a container for scented oils. I’ve purchased some really tiny corks that can be inserted into the modern vessels after a drop or two of essential oil or perfume has been added. The example below is a faithful reproduction in traditional soda lime glass of an ancient example. I’ve added a tiny cork to the top. This is also in my Etsy shop, here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/961365572/lampwork-glass-scent-bottle-pendant-with?ref=shop_home_active_7&frs=1
There is much more to come in this series and I’ll be posting additional examples here soon.
Past Present Arts and Crafts 