Atlanta Antique Gallery - Higgins

Higgins Glass refers to any piece of art glass or fused glass fashioned by Michael and Frances Higgins, of Chicago, Illinois, USA, during the last half of the 20th century. Their work combines a Kandinsky-esque visual aesthetic with an emphasis on functionality of the finished pieces.

The glass is especially prized for two reasons: first, its distinctive aesthetic virtue, and second, the uniqueness of the fused glass processes first developed and used by the Higginses.

By 1950 the Higgins' finished products were appearing in upscale retail stores like Marshall Fields, Bloomingdales and others.

In 1951 their work was featured in the Chicago Art Institute's "Designer Craftsman Exhibit" and the "Good Design Show" presented at the Chicago Merchandise Mart.

They quickly became recognized as pioneers in the emerging field of studio glass and their association with the Dearborn Glass Company in the mid-1950s led to a small mass production of Higgins Glass, particularly ashtrays.

Today their work is considered highly collectible and is prized by both museums and private collectors alike.