Figure
Object NameFigure
Date18th century
OriginFrance, Nevers
MediumOpaque and translucent multicolored glass; lampwork.
Dimensions3 1/4 × 1 1/4 in. diameter (8.3 × 3.2 cm)
ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Glass
Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object number3.6.58
Status
Not on viewCollections
CultureFrench
Label TextIn France, Nevers was once of the most important glassmaking centers as early as the sixteenth century. Although the glass factory at Nevers was famous for producing glass in the Venetian style, it also became well known for very curious glass toys known as Nevers figures. Produced as cabinet decorations or chimney pieces, they usually came in sets of characters derived from biblical or other popular stories and commonly depicted medieval court scenes.
A figure was made using different colored opaque glass rods, softened at-the-lamp, then twisted around supporting wires. This technique was probably discovered by the Romans, who would have used oil lamps. Eventually artisans utilized Bunsen burners as their heat source. These small figures were made with great attention to detail, with elaborate colors and well- defined facial features. Typically, Nevers figures are between 2.5 and 15 centimeters tall, requiring a glassmaker skilled at intricate work.
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Brunnier Art Museum
Object Name: Figure Group: dancers
Frankenthal Porcelain Factory
19th century
Object number: 2.6.109
Object Name: Fashion Print
Modes de Paris Petit Courrier des Dames
1834
Object number: 13.7.59
