Glass making at Cookson s, South Shields

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Glass making at Cookson s, South Shields

Glass making at Cookson s, South Shields: a glass blower making sheet glass.
1844

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 23080294

© Mary Evans Picture Library

1840s Blower Blowing Jul18 Manufacture Newcastle Shields Tyne Cookson

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Europe > United Kingdom > Northern Ireland > County Down > Newcastle

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021

EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph from the 1840s, a glass blower is intently focused on his craft at Cookson's glassworks in South Shields, near Newcastle upon Tyne. The industrial setting of the glasshouse is filled with the fiery glow of the furnace, casting long, dancing shadows on the walls. The glassblower, dressed in a heavy apron and protective goggles, skillfully shapes a sheet of molten glass on the end of a long iron blowpipe. The intricate process of glassmaking begins with the melting of raw materials in a furnace, which reaches temperatures of up to 1500 degrees Celsius. Once the glass is molten, the glassblower uses various tools to shape and manipulate it. In this image, the glassblower is in the process of inflating the glass by blowing air through the blowpipe, creating a hollow bubble. The glass will then be shaped further by rolling it on a marble table or by using various molds. The art of glassmaking has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Rome. However, the Industrial Revolution brought about significant advancements in the production of glass, with the development of large-scale glass factories like Cookson's in South Shields. These factories allowed for the mass production of glass, making it more accessible and affordable to the general public. Despite the industrial nature of the glassmaking process during this time, the craftsmanship and skill of the glassblower are still evident in this photograph. The intricate movements of the glassblower's hands and the fiery intensity of the furnace create a mesmerizing scene, showcasing the beauty and artistry of glassmaking.

MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.