Intro to depression glass
Nov 19, 2014 | by Becky Oeltjenbruns
Green glassware, Image by Holly from Asheville NC
There’s something special about how light twinkles off a glassware collection and with the holidays upon us, enjoying a toast in your vintage cup can feel all the more memorable. In the spirit of great entertaining, we’ve created an intro to depression glass. Depression glass is a wonderful collection option so let’s get started!
What is depression glass?
Depression glass refers to the inexpensive glassware and tableware made by American manufacturers between the mid 1920s and early 1940s. Often times these items were handed out as promotions or freebies with another kind of purchase. You may even find some small treasures that made their way into cereal boxes back in the day!
Who were the major depression glass manufacturers?
Many domestic firms were involved in depression glass, but six of the big firms are Anchor Hocking, Indiana, Federal, Jeannette, MacBeth-Evans, and Hazel Atlas. While these companies introduced the most patterns and product, other well-known firms include: Westmoreland, McKee, US Glass, and Lancaster.
Hazel Atlas mark
There are a multitude of patterns available and Wikipedia has a helpful list of patterns as they relate to manufacturers. You most likely won’t find these pieces marked, but it’s a treat when you do.
What were designs inspired by?
One of the best things about collecting the depression glass genre is the sheer diversity available (latest count: about 100 different patterns). For inspiration firms drew from existing patterns, incorporated Art Deco motifs, or recreated designs from high-end companies such as Tiffany’s. As you start looking, you will notice a lot of floral and geometric arrangements. It’s important to note that once one company’s design became popular with the public, the other firms would follow suit with their own spin on it.
How was depression glass made?
True to the greater climate of the times, depression glass was made very economically. Using technological developments, the glass was mechanically pressed into molds and didn’t receive a lot of individual attention. These are not high-end or crafted pieces, but their charm carries through.
When you start collecting, you’ll notice that there are well-defined mold lines and there may be flaws or extra bits of glass on the edges or sides. Keep in mind, pieces weren’t hand finished – they left the mold and were out the door! Due to this quick process, you’ll be able to find some “unique” pieces that have quirks. These oddities are par for the course and shouldn’t impact your collection’s value greatly.
Pink sunflower plate for cakes
A quick word about “Elegant glass”
If you find an item that dates from this same time period, but it has more detailing and lacks strong mold lines, you are most likely holding “Elegant glass.” This kind of glass was used primarily for bridal gifts and reception displays.
What are common depression glass colors?
You will find pastel shades, such as green, amber, or pink. While these soft tones are very popular, the standard clear and rich tones were also utilized: such as ruby, deep green, and blue. These were exceptionally lean times, so a burst of color went a long way to cheering people up. As we mentioned above, companies took advantage of this “bring joy to the masses” campaign and handed out these jolly pieces within their packaging or as a freebie for movie night.
Cause A Frockus would like to thank the above reference guide authors, Collector’s Weekly, and the people who post their images to the public domain.
For our readers: What is your favorite type of glass to collect?