Glass Arts
Glass - a fragile material which came into existence by invention of the scientists in their relentless efforts through constant research in finding innovative items for use by the humanity at large. Glass was a product of sand or the silicon content of sand which was developed into a viable material for multi faceted usages later on.
Further researches refined and enabled the technology of making different articles of glass and the art of designing in glass was born. Today glass arts have become one of the costly divisions of artifacts because of its rarity and exquisite skills needed by the artisans, clubbed with the time involved.
Birthplace of Glass arts
Mesopotamia is the first place meriting as maker of glass according to archeological experts in 3000 BC. There are also certain claims that the Native Americans discovered glass more or less the same historical period. Primarily the Egyptians developed the coloring and artistic designing of pure glass into various shapes and shades such as flower vases, rods, threads and so on. Egypt being one of the most ancient civilizations of the mankind, this is a theory that bears unassailable proof.
Developments of Glass arts
The Roman empire had, as evidenced by historians, many artisans who mastered the art of glass making, designing, cutting and allied techniques, which gradually spread to various countries including China, England and Scandinavian countries. Over the years the artisans sharpened their acute skills in making ornate designs of glass materials, applying enamels, gilding them suitably and producing variety of articles such as pipes, window panes, vases, jars etc. Islamic countries were particularly interested in using glass made vessels because of their fancy, clear visibility and shining qualities.
Germany in Europe made its contribution in the making and usages of various glass articles by blowing methods into globes, vessels, broad sheets and the like. Churches started using stained glass windows during this period and soon it became very popular in Italy and other European countries. The Industrial revolution further augmented to the growth of glass making and glass arts industry to a large extent.
Artifacts made of glass
Consequent to the mass production in factories after the industrial revolution, apart from blowing, other techniques of making glass materials in a large scale were tested and followed to cater to the needs of demand. Laboratory equipment, water glasses, bulbs, mirrors, glass paintings, glass lighting, flasks were to be produced in millions. This necessitated further inventions for strengthening the ordinary glass with other chemicals and compounds and yet keeping the original delicate nature of glass.
Contemporary Glass arts
The contribution of Japan and Korea needs special mention in offering classic glass art pieces to the present day world. Canada excels in artistic glass paper weights industry. Germany, Italy, Great Britain, Sweden, Slovakia and Denmark have also contributed well towards the refining and enchanting designs of glass arts and the world is still fascinated in using these works of artistry with awe.
