Happy Spring!  Many of us are enjoying nature’s awakening at this time of the year.  Delicate cherry and apple blossoms adorn what were recently bare tree branches, and the bulbs of daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths are pushing forth their flowers from the earth.  For those who look out the window and still see snow blanketing the ground, I hope you may find solace in the flowers of your glass until spring arrives in earnest.

The spring palette always reminds me of Frederick Carder’s Florentia glass.  As Paul V. Gardner explains in his book:  “In this decorative technique, the leaf-shaped elements were prepared from powdered glass in the shape and color desired, usually green or pink.  These elements were then picked up on the hot crystal glass gather and fused and worked into a vase or other desired form.  After annealing, the entire surface was given a mat finish by acid etching or sandblasting.“

Florentia was introduced in the late 1920’s and is typically used in simple, elegant shapes that best highlight the soft motif.  The most common colors are green or cinnamon (pink) but others may be rarely found.  The delicate pastel colors and softly veined petals feel like they belong to this season.

Some of the various forms and colors of Carder Steuben’s Florentia glass are shown below.  You can also find more examples of Florentia on the Carder Steuben Glass Association in the Shape Gallery here.

Mark your calendars!  The annual Carder Steuben Glass Association Symposium will take place from September 7-9, 2023 at the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, New York.  More information on the program and registration details will be available this summer.  We hope to see you there!

• Taylor & Harris — April 16, 2023  Offering a mix of Carder-era and modern Steuben glass including several stemware sets.
• Woody Auction — April 22, 2023  Contains several Carder Steuben compotes, vases, and candlesticks in amber and green glass.
• Jaremos — April 26, 2023  Features several Carder Steuben items including a Moss Agate lamp base and a peacock decorated Aurene vase.