Inkipedia
Mercury Glass Inkwell from W. Lund & Co.
| Categories | Glass - Non-figural |
| Material | Glass |
| Markings | See narrative |
| Manufacturer | W. Lund & Co |
| Origin | England |
| Date or Era | circa 1890 |
| Measuring | Cranberry: 3 ¾” diameter base, 3 ¾” high / Green: 4 ⅝” diameter, 4 ½” high |
Two examples are pictured – one cranberry colored and one green colored mercury glass – made by W. Lund & Co. in London.
Mercury glass, also known as silvered glass, is a type of glass that has a reflective, metallic appearance. It was first produced in the mid-19th century, around 1840, and became popular for its decorative appeal.
Production Process
- Double-Walled Glass: Mercury glass is made by blowing glass into a double-walled shape.
- Silvering Solution: The space between the walls is then coated with a silvering solution, typically containing silver nitrate and grape sugar, which gives it its distinctive reflective quality.
- Sealing: The glass is sealed to protect the silvering solution inside.
Historical Context
- Origins: It was originally produced in Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), Germany, and England. The technique was patented in England in 1849 by Edward Varnish and Frederick Hale Thomson.
Cranberry sold for $200 in October 2024
Green sold for $400 in May 2019
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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