This is a signed piece of Kew-Blas art glass that features a gold iridescent small candy or nut tray with attached metal arched handle done to depict a vine handle. Circa 1900. This piece measures 7 1/4″ diameter at the widest point and stands 5 1/2″ high. Excellent original condition.
The Union Glass Co. was established in 1851 in Somerville, Massachusetts by Amory and Francis Houghton, two members of the prominent Houghton business family. The company was successful making a range of glass products doorknobs, lamps, bottles, windows, lenses, tableware and were especially noted for railroad lanterns. The company adapted to changing fashions and economic conditions and as the society grew richer the company moved into art glass.
With the great success of art glass companies such as Tiffany and Quezal in the late 19th century, the Union Glass Co introduced their own range of iridescent glass which was called Kew Blas. Iridescent glass is a type of glass that typically contains a small amount of metal oxide. When light strikes the surface of the glass, it is reflected in a way that creates a spectrum of colors.
The company created a a number of different vases of various styles. The range was very successful in the early 1900s but the factory was closed down in 1927.
