“Morgan Vase” and stand

Hobbs, Brockunier and Company

1886–91 · Peachblow glass, blown; amber glass, pressed · The American Wing

The second half of the nineteenth century witnessed a proliferation of highly ornamental decorative arts in nearly every medium. Glassmakers during this period experimented with new techniques, introducing bold color effects and embracing exotic influences. Many new lines of art glass imitated other materials. This particular form was made in imitation of the “Morgan Vase,” the famous eighteenth-century Chinese porcelain vase with a peachblow glaze from the collection of Mrs. Mary Morgan, which sold at auction in 1886 for the astonishing price of $18,000. Hobbs, Brockunier & Company was one of a number of glass firms to capitalize on this event and the company created a copy of the vase with their perfected Amberina glass, relating in shape and size to the Chinese porcelain example. The amber pressed glass base on which this vase sits imitates the carved wood base of the original.

Artist

Hobbs, Brockunier and Company

Date

1886–91

Medium

Peachblow glass, blown; amber glass, pressed

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Purchase, Funds from various donors, 2015