History of ancient Roman glass

The term "Roman glass" is a very broad, generic term, and refers to a certain age under Roman rule as opposed to a particular subject area. The Roman Empire was so great that there are many different styles co-exist within his empire, although a unifying "Roman" theme can be recognized in the pieces.

In the 1st century BC, was glass blowing invented in Syria. In the same period, the Roman Empire was founded, and by means of his conquests and trade then spread it a unique culture.

Alexandria and Syria exported their glassware to Rome, from which the works were then to a Roman colonies in Europe. Rome was so critical in spreading the art of glassmaking to Europe.

In the 1st century after Christ, large-scale glass production took place in Syria, Palestine and Alexandria. A Syrian glassmaker named Ennion left even his name on his glass work. Generally, Syrian glass blowers often produced utilitarian glassware, while the Alexandrian glass blowers focused on luxury objects. Many also moved to Italy and other Roman colonies, and glass houses spread quickly through Europe. Cologne would soon a glassmaking Centre just as important as Alexandria. The styles of these different locations were very similar to each other.

Like this started the Roman period an unprecedented flowering in the glass industry, where even the ordinary people have access to glassware began. Some household glass types that often used were janus flasks, which the head of persons in a flask and victory cups, with laurels and inscriptions for decoration. Mirrors and windows were also produced using glass.
Artistic glass also continued to be produced. For example, that were cage cups, bowls or cups with rounded sides, were created. These headings had pierced decorations attached by Struts. This decoration is not fused to the surface; Instead, the entire object made from a solid block of glass by under-cutting. Because the process is so complex, surviving pieces are very rare and difficult to reproduce even today.

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the glass industry also suffered a dramatic decline. With arts and crafts, there is a general tendency to follow the up and downs of politics. This trend is even greater in more expensive types of art. So, while still utilitarian glassware produced artistic glassware, of course, lacked question as a political and economic conditions were unstable and people could not afford to buy luxury.

Beautiful and practical glassware bought? Read more about exquisite hand blown glass vases, bowls, paperweights.

View the original article here