Viking glass, celebrated for its vibrant colors and innovative designs, boasts a rich history that blends artistry with functionality. From its humble beginnings to becoming a coveted collectible, Viking medieval glasses exemplify the craftsmanship of its creators during the Middle Ages and the Viking Age. This article delves into the history and development of Viking glass, spotlighting notable designs and patterns that have enthralled collectors and enthusiasts throughout the centuries.
With its roots in the Viking Age glassware tradition, Viking glass has evolved significantly, becoming a prominent part of historical glass artistry and Middle Ages glassmaking. The evolution of Viking glass is a testament to royal power and the vibrant Viking glass techniques that have influenced collectible Viking glass across generations.
Origins of Viking Glass
Viking glass originated in the mid-20th century in the United States. The company behind this remarkable glassware, Viking Glass Company, was established in 1944 in New Martinsville, West Virginia. However, its roots trace back to an older glass manufacturer, the New Martinsville Glass Company, which had been in operation since 1901. The transition from New Martinsville Glass to Viking Glass marked a significant shift in the glass windows’ design philosophy and manufacturing techniques.
The Golden Era: 1950s-1970s
The 1950s to the 1970s is considered the golden era of Viking glassware. During this period, Viking Glass Company produced a hundred glass panes plethora of innovative designs and vibrant colors that set them apart from other glass panes manufacturers during the viking age. The company’s commitment to quality and creativity earned it a prominent place in the glassmaking industry.
Notable Designs and Patterns
- Epic Line: One of the most iconic collections from the viking age was introduced in the 1950s. Known for its bold and dramatic shapes, the Epic Line featured pieces with swooping curves and intricate details. Vases, bowls, and candle holders from this line are highly coveted by collectors.
- Blunikins: Viking’s Blunikins, or “Blue Niki,” series introduced in the 1960s viking age, showcased a stunning cobalt blue glass. The deep, rich color of Blunikins pieces made them stand out, and they remain popular among collectors for their striking appearance.
- Epic Bird: The Epic Bird series, featuring glass birds in various poses, became a symbol of Viking’s artistry. These birds, often crafted in vibrant colors such as ruby red, emerald green, and amethyst purple, are cherished for their whimsical yet elegant designs.
- Georgian Pattern: The Georgian pattern, introduced in the 1960s viking age, drew inspiration from antique glassware. Characterized by its intricate diamond-cut design, this pattern added a touch of vintage charm to Viking’s repertoire.
Innovations in Color and Technique
The primary technique used in the viking age was glassblowing, which allowed for the creation of various shapes and sizes of glassware. Other techniques included molding and cutting glass fragments. The decoration of glass fragments was often achieved through trailing, where threads of glass were applied to the surface found glass fragments, or by adding colored glass.
Glassmakers experimented with a wide range different shades of hues, from deep, rich tones to bright, translucent shades. Some of the most notable colors include:
- Amberina: A gradient color that transitions from amber to red, Amberina glassware became a hallmark of Viking’s innovative approach to coloration.
- Persimmon: This vibrant orange-red hue captured the essence of mid-century modern design and became a favorite among collectors.
- Avocado: Reflecting the earthy tones of the 1960s and 70s, Avocado glassware was a popular choice for contemporary interiors.
The viking culture artisans and danish researchers cultivated both traditional and modern Viking glassmaking techniques to create intricate patterns and textures flat pane glass. For example, hand-blown and mold-blown techniques were used to get window glass fragment achieve the desired shapes and details, resulting in glassware that was both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Common Colors
- Blue: Blue was one of the most common colors in Viking glassware. It was achieved by adding cobalt or copper to the glass mixture. Blue glass beads and vessels were popular and often found in archaeological sites.
- Green: Green glass was also prevalent. This color was typically produced by adding iron or copper to the glass. Green glass items included beads, vessels, and decorative pieces.
- Yellow: Yellow glass was created using iron or lead antimony. This color was less common but still found in various glass items, particularly beads.
- Amber and Brown: These colors were achieved using iron oxide. Amber-colored glass was particularly valued and often used in beads and vessels.
- Clear: Clear or colorless glass was made by refining the raw materials to remove impurities. This type of glass was relatively rare and likely highly prized.
The Decline and Legacy
Despite its success, Viking Glass Company faced challenges in the late 20th century vikings age. Economic downturns, increased competition, and changing consumer preferences contributed to a decline in demand for hand-blown glassware.
However, the legacy of handmade Viking glassware endures. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to seek out vintage Viking pieces, appreciating their historical significance and artistic value.
Exploration and Trade
Vikings were accomplished navigators, using longships that were swift and versatile, enabling them to traverse open seas, navigate rivers, and reach distant lands.
Viking trade routes connected Scandinavia with the wider world, facilitating the exchange of goods. Major trading centers like Birka (in Sweden) and Hedeby (in Denmark) thrived during this period.
Viking Glass as a Collectible
Today, Viking glassware is highly collectible, with pieces fetching significant prices at auctions and antique shops. Collectors value Viking glass not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its historical context. Owning a piece of Viking glass is akin to owning a piece of time period of mid-20th-century American history.
Artistic Merit: Viking Glass is celebrated for its artistic and aesthetic qualities. The vibrant colors, unique shapes, and high-quality craftsmanship of Viking pieces make them stand out as works of art. Collectors appreciate the attention to detail and the innovative designs that characterize Viking glassware.
Historical Significance: As a representative of mid-20th-century American glass production, Viking Glass holds significant historical value. The company’s contributions to the glassmaking industry and its influence early window glass had on design trends and pop culture of the era make its pieces historically important.
Rarity and Condition: Certain colors raw materials and patterns are rarer than others, increasing their value. Pieces from the Epic Line, especially in colors like Bluenique and Viking Red, are particularly sought after. Additionally, the condition of the glassware significantly affects its value.
Signed Pieces: Some Viking glassware museum pieces are marked with the company’s signature or logo, adding to their authenticity and value. Signed museum pieces are often more desirable to collectors, as they provide a guarantee of the piece’s origin story and craftsmanship.
Market Demand: The market demand for Viking glassware has remained strong from the viking age and over the years. Collectors and enthusiasts actively seek out Viking glass vessel pieces at auctions, antique shops, and online marketplaces. The ongoing popularity of mid-century modern design has also contributed to the continued interest and trade in Viking glassware.
The evolution of Viking glassware is a testament to the creativity and cultivated viking elite craftsmanship of American glassmakers. From its origins in the early 20th century to its heyday in the mid-1900s, Viking glass has left an indelible mark on the world of collectible glassware. Its vibrant colors, innovative designs, and enduring legacy continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring that Viking glass remains a cherished part of American cultural history ever since the viking age. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of glassware, the allure of Viking glass is undeniable, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of artistry and elegance.
