A fine Thomas Webb engraved 'rock-crystal-style' bowl circa 1890

by George Woodall, signed, the wide globular form with broad spiral flutes above a narrow everted foot, the waisted upper section with wavy rim engraved with overlapping pointed leaves, engraved and polished overall with formal patterns of feathered leaves enclosing small panels of berried leaves and flowers, the foot engraved with chrysanthemums and scrolling leaves

Although primarily regarded as one of the foremost English cameo glass engravers, George Woodall is also known to have produced some imitation rock crystal glass in the late 19th century. Such pieces are quite rare but reveal Woodall's extreme versatility. It is likely that he was inspired by the work of the Bohemian engravers working in the Stourbridge glass industry such as William Fritsche.