Three-Mold Blown Inkwell – Diamond Pattern

This early American glass inkwell! is grouped by McKearin as “GII-2”.

“McKearin” is the seminal work on early American glass, “American Glass” by George S. and Helen McKearin. This two-volume set, first published in 1941, remains the standard reference for collectors and scholars of 18th and 19th-century American glass. The McKearins meticulously cataloged and classified various types and patterns of early American glass.

The designation “GII-2” is a specific cataloging number within the McKearins’ classification system.

• GII: This refers to Group II in the McKearins’ organization. Group II encompasses three-mold blown glass. This type of glass was created by blowing molten glass into a mold made in three or more sections, which imparted a distinct geometric or figured pattern onto the surface of the glass. This technique was prevalent in the United States from around 1815 to the 1830s.
• -2: The “-2” is a specific pattern number within the Three-Mold Blown Group II. Each number within this group represents a distinct mold pattern identified and illustrated by the McKearins. Pattern GII-2 specifically describes an all-over diamond diapered pattern, often with variations in the size and arrangement of the diamonds.

The inkwell has the common characteristics of early blown inkwells.

• “Applied disc to the top”: This is a common characteristic of many early blown inkwells. It served to create a more stable and finished opening. The description is accurate here.
• “Rounded shoulder”: This accurately describes the transition from the wider body of the inkwell to the narrower neck and opening.
• “Dark green black glass”: This accurately describes the color, which is typical of some early American glass due to the raw materials and firing conditions.
• “Open scar on the bottom”: This is a hallmark of blown glass from this period. It’s the pontil mark, where the glass blower’s pontil rod was attached to hold the vessel during the finishing process and then broken off, leaving a rough scar.

• Three-Mold Blowing: This was a significant glassmaking technique of the early 19th century in America. It allowed for the relatively quick and consistent production of patterned glassware. The molds were often intricately engraved, imparting detailed geometric or figured designs.

Coventry Glass Factory:

There was a significant glass manufacturing presence in Coventry, Connecticut, during the early 19th century. The most well-known was the Coventry Glass Works, also sometimes referred to as the Coventry Glass Factory.

• Operating Period: The Coventry Glass Works was in operation from approximately 1813 to 1848.
• Types of Glass Produced: Like many early American glasshouses, Coventry produced a range of utilitarian and some decorative glass items, including bottles, flasks, window glass, tableware and fancy items that included blown and molded pieces.
• Three-Mold Glass Production: Coventry is recognized as one of the important centers for the production of three-mold blown glass in the United States.