The Warren C. Lane, Jr., Esquire Collection of Historical Flasks
“The American System” and Steam Vessel with American Flag – “Use Me But Do Not Abuse Me.” And Sheaf Of Rye
As many of us watched the closing of this great auction last night, I find myself very interested in the example of “The American System” historical flask. During my second visit earlier this month to see the great Vuono collection of historical flasks in Connecticut, I could not help but to admire an example of this flask that seemed to get so much attention. This gorgeous flask is early, (1820 – 1840) and historically significant. It is also one the of the finest pieces of glass made in the Pittsburgh district. The Heckler write-up is noted below with the auction pictures. You will also find at the bottom of this post a Decanter ca. 1826-35 made by Bakewell, Page & Bakewell that resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Lot: 31 “The American System” And Steam Vessel With American Flag – “Use Me But Do Not Abuse Me.” And Sheaf Of Rye Historical Flask, probably Bakewell, Page, and Bakewell Manufacturers, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 1820-1840. Clear light green, sheared mouth – pontil scar, pint. GX-21 One of the great rarities in American historical flasks. This example is exceptional with strong embossing, brilliant color, great condition. Ex Dr. Charles Osgood collection, Warren “Bud” Lane collection.
The American System” And Steam Vessel With American Flag – “Use Me But Do Not Abuse Me.” And Sheaf Of Rye Historical Flask
The American System” And Steam Vessel With American Flag – “Use Me But Do Not Abuse Me.” And Sheaf Of Rye Historical Flask
The American System” And Steam Vessel With American Flag – “Use Me But Do Not Abuse Me.” And Sheaf Of Rye Historical Flask
Decanter ca. 1826-35 – Bakewell, Page & Bakewell (1808–1882) One of a pair (its mate is in the Philadelphia Museum of Art), this decanter features elaborate cut decoration. It is distinguished by a sulphide portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the front. A difficult technique developed in Europe, a high-fired ceramic material is embedded into a bubble of glass, which is then deflated so the image is surrounded by glass. Highly fashionable in France, sulphide portrait decoration was first produced in America by the Pittsburgh firm Bakewell, Page, and Bakewell in 1825 in an effort to compete with European glass manufacturers. The Museum has two glass tumblers with sulphide portraits embedded in their bases, one depicting George Washington (1984.152), the other Lafayette (1947.44). – Metropolitan Museum of Art
