Atlanta Antique Gallery - Pattern Glass EAPG

Collecting Early American Patterm Glass or EAPG can be exciting, but at the same time, confusing. Pattern names vary; factual information can be difficult to attain; and myths about this antique glass abound. Prior to 1820, the mainstay of American glass was solely of blown glasswares. As the need for more timely and cost effective glass production grew, manufacturers developed the art of pressed glass. The earliest makers such as Pears and Bakewell, Boston & Sandwich Glass Co., are credited with the new processes in glass manufacture. Through the 1830's, imagination and ingenuity coupled with less costly production and work time, led to a myriad of lacy flint patterns. Once the production of antique lacy glass tablewares proved impractical and unprofitable, new techniques were developed and the artistry of motifs and patterns of a utilitarian nature became standard in both blown and pressed forms. Around 1870 and in order to increase sales, glassmakers introduced color, such as ruby stain and frosted or satin like effects. Also, slag, chocolate, and custard colorations were integral to patterns depicting animals, flowers, fruit and geometric designs. In the field of blown pattern glass, color was achieved both in clear, cased or plated, and gilt decorated forms. A large portion of the antique American pattern glass making occurred along the Ohio Valley, encompassing West Virginia makers such as Hobbs Brockunier, Riverside Glass Company, U.S. Glass Company, Gillinder & Sons, Northwood Glass Co., Consolidated Lamp & Glass Co., Indiana Tumbler & Goblet Co., Dalzell Gilmore Leighton Co., Bellaire, and Bryce Brothers.