Thomas Webb & Sons, "Persian" Bottle

Collection of Maude B. Feld, New York

Thence by descent to Alan W. Feld and Suzanne C. Feld, 1995

R. and L. Grover, English Cameo Glass, New York, 1980, p. 297, no. C292

Exquisite craftsmanship in cameo glass is synonymous with the 19th-century production of English firm Thomas Webb & Sons, represented here in the following three lots.

The first cameo glass vessels were produced around 25 C.E. to 50 A.D. by the Romans, the most celebrated example of which is the legendary Portland Vase. The first layer of the two-handled vase is made from a deep violet-blue glass, with a second layer of white glass that was intricately carved to create two figural scenes. Discovered in Italy in the late 16th century, the vase was acquired by the dowager duchess of Portland and subsequently placed in the collection of the British Museum, London, in 1810 where it has remained ever since, drawing countless visitors in admiration. Its presence in the country undoubtedly inspired an entire generation of neoclassical artisans, who sought to mimic the vase’s technical achievements and spurred a revival in cameo glass production.

Born in a lineage of glassmakers, Thomas Wilkes Webb founded Thomas Webb & Sons in 1837, introducing quality engraved crystal and colored glass to the market. His contributions to the medium earned him the title of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, while the company became known as “The Crystal King of England.” The company flourished even further under the control of his three sons, Thomas, Charles and Walter, who succeeded as directors upon their father’s death in 1869. The Webb brothers improved working conditions for craftsmen and encouraged their creativity. They hired many artisans, including George and Thomas Woodall as well as company art director James O’Fallon, who were responsible for the majority of new cameo glass designs.

George and Thomas Woodall are particularly well-regarded for their contributions to Thomas Webb & Sons’ cameo glass production. Thomas Woodall was proficient at designing decorative borders and floral motifs. Meanwhile George Woodall had a skill for figural engravings and often sought inspiration from classical subjects, as seen in the following "Diana and Nymph" Vase. In combination, the talents of the Woodalls generated elegant glassworks with ornate depictions in varying gradations of white glass that would define the peak of the company’s production. The present selection is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Thomas Webb & Sons, and a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire some of the finest masterworks from the firm.