American Brilliant Cut Glass

Establishing North America as new hub of exceptional glasswork, American Brilliant cut glass was produced predominantly between the years of 1876 and 1917. Though in production for only a brief period of time, antique pieces of American Brilliant cut glass pieces reveal the immense talent of early American cut glass masters.

The art of cut glass had been popular in Europe prior the late 19th century, but American creators found it difficult to break into the European market. Though their pieces rivaled, if not surpassed, European makers, international audiences did not trust American cut glass companies to be exceptional. This distrust melted away, however, in 1876, when several American cut glass makers showcased their wares at the Philadelphia's Centennial Exposition. The success of these makers there, combined with an even more jubilant reception at the Parisian Exposition Universelle in the following decade, secured the status of American cut glass and launched this "Brilliant" age.

Though the popularity of cut glass ushered in imposters during the 20th century, American Brilliant cut glass remained a gold standard for glass production. The complexity of their cuts combined with the overall beauty of their pieces ensure American Brilliant era's place in glassmaking history.

Quick Facts

• American Brilliant cut glass was so popular that, during its peak years (1880-1910), the leading American cut glass producers utilized close to 1,000 cutting shops to create their intricate designs
• Some of the most acclaimed American Brilliant cut glass producers were Libbey, T.G. Hawkes, Egginton, and Mt. Washington, all of whom boasted their own signature patterns
• Classic characteristics of authentic cut glass: an exceptional weight, an unrivaled clarity, and a sonorous ring when gently tapped