Miniature Thomas Webb Bronze Vase

This diminutive vase by Thomas Webb & Co.'s design dates to the 1880s. It measures a mere 3x3 inches, which puts it squarely in the category of miniature cabinet vases. The decor is known by collectors as "Bronze", which consists of an inner layer of colored base glass (in this case green) with a crackled surface. A metallic oxide iridescent layer is applied to the surface in colorful hues. The rim of this vase is flame polished and the base has a roughly shaped, but flame polished pontil.

It is little surprise that these Webb Bronze vases are sometimes confused with Loetz and other Bohemian art glass. Christopher Dresser designed this decor when he worked for Webb, but he went on to design many Loetz items beginning in the 1890s, particularly those for export to Max Emmanuel in London.