The Best Is Yet to Be

Perhaps one of the most fascinating physical characteristics of ancient glass is a phenomenon known as iridescence. This effect is not a result of a glassmaker's technique or his materials, but rather simply the passage of time. Over the centuries, the natural weathering of glass causes its thin layers to slightly separate from one another and flake away, leading to a refraction of light between each layer. The result is a prism effect created by bouncing rays of light, producing an iridescent appearance.

1. Perfume bottle 1st–4th century C.E.

2. Blown ribbed bowl 1st Century C.E.

3. Roman candlestick 2-3rd Century C.E.

DELICATE BEAUTY: THE HISTORY OF ANCIENT GLASS

Glass Art - Chihuly Glass / Seattle

Ancient glass, from the collections of the Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, Virginia. 

From top: 

Chihuly Glass

Chihuly Glass

Chihuly Glass Garden, Seattle

Boat loads of colorful Chihuly glass creations

Glass Bowls, Chihuly Museum, Seattle

Glass tree in Chihuly Garden

Chihuly Glass (ceiling)

Glass models of marine invertebrates made by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, circa late 19th century.

Vitrinidae | Munich, May 2017

Magnolias and Irises 

by Louis Comfort Tiffany c.1908

Chihuly On The Lake

Hellenistic mosaic glass bowl, late 3rd-2nd Century B.C