The beauty of silver and glass
Posted by WATANABETAIGA
Hello everyone! I'm Watanabe, the owner of "SILVER-LUG".
Our store carries a large selection of Western antique silver items.
This time, we would like to share with you the beauty that can be created by combining two different materials: silver and glass.
This time, we will explain why the combination of silver and glass is so appealing to us, introduce specific items that are available, and give tips on how to incorporate these items into your life.
1. The appeal of the combination of silver and glass
In the world of Western antiques, the combination of silver and glass is truly a golden combination.
These two seemingly contrasting materials combine to bring out the best in each other, creating a unique beauty.
The gorgeous and profound shine of silver and the delicate transparency of glass.
The combination of these two creates a rich contrast in light reflection and texture, and just looking at it fills the soul.
A brilliance that makes light your friend
Silver's polished surface reflects light beautifully.
On the other hand, glass creates sparkle by "transmitting" and "refracting" light.
The combination of silver and glass creates a complex interplay of the two types of light, resulting in a beautiful glow.
The charm of delicate craftsmanship
Many antique silver and glass products are made with extremely delicate craftsmanship, thanks to the skilled techniques of artisans.
By combining the decorative techniques of silver and glass, a variety of expressions are created.
Silver can be decorated in a variety of ways, including engraving and embossing, and the designs are also diverse.
When glass is combined with decorations called piercings, which are made by cutting holes with a fret saw, the glass can be seen through the pierced areas, creating a beauty that cannot be expressed by either method alone.
Typical examples of glass include cut glass, which is made by cutting (scores) into thick glass to create patterns, and etching, which is made by corroding the surface with chemicals and then carving intricate decorations.
The refraction of light can also be changed by changing the thickness and shape of the glass.
Furthermore, the color and transmittance of light can be changed by coloring the glass or sandblasting it to create a frosted finish.
Color combinations
Silver of the same purity will have roughly the same color, and it is not possible to create a wide variety of colors with just that. It is also difficult to color with enamel, as is the case with ceramics.
However, glass can be colored in a variety of colors, as can be seen in stained glass.
Typical colors include cobalt glass (blue) and cranberry glass (red), but various colors such as green, purple, and black can also be combined with silver products.
2. Types of silver and glass combinations
What specific combinations of items are there?
Here we will introduce some typical combinations and items.
Glass containers with silver lids
The glass containers are decorated with cut glass and etchings, and are combined with silver lids and handles.
Many silver lids are beautifully decorated with engravings or reposés.
This combination is often seen on food containers such as biscuit barrels, glass jars, and decanters, as well as perfume bottles and ink bottles.
Silver base and glass liner combination
It is made of a silver base with pierced decoration and a glass liner (removable glass container).
Deep, beautifully colored glass known as cobalt glass or cranberry glass is often used, and the contrast with the delicate silver intricacy is eye-catching.
This combination is often seen on sugar baskets, butter dishes, and vases.
Silver overlay
Silver overlay is a technique in which a silver pattern is baked or glued onto the surface of glass.
This technique developed from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, particularly in America, and delicate designs featuring plant and floral motifs became popular during the Art Nouveau period.
The fine, lace-like silver pattern creates an elegant and glamorous atmosphere without compromising the transparency of the glass.
A variety of products are produced, including perfume bottles, tableware such as plates, decanters, and vases.
3. Tips for incorporating it into your daily life
Antique items are beautiful just to display, but by incorporating them into modern life, you can bring out their charm even more.
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Perfume bottle <br>Not only can you put perfume in it, but you can also add water and a few drops of your favorite aroma oil to use as a room fragrance.
You can also display it in a window and let the light shine through, creating a beautiful sparkle just like a suncatcher. -
Sugar Basket :
Of course, you can use it as a sugar bowl, but it is also recommended to store sweets such as candy and chocolate in it, or to decorate it with small dried flowers.
It instantly brightens up your table. -
Silver overlay plate :
It can be used as tableware on the dining table, but it also makes a lovely interior decoration when displayed on a shelf or wall.It can also be used as an accessory tray.
The appeal of antiques is that they allow us to imagine stories from the past while discovering new value in modern life.
Please try to find a way to use it that suits you.
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How was it?
I hope that you will be interested in the unique beauty of the combination of silver and glass.
The rich shine of silver and the delicate sparkle of glass. The harmony created by these two different materials brings elegance and special moments to our daily lives.
In addition to the items introduced this time, there are many other fascinating Western antiques. Why not use this article as an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of antiques?
