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MERCURY
GLASS!
GLASS GAZING GLOBES
Globes on foot were made in the United States from around 1852
until about 1870. The New England Glass Company of Cambridge, MA
produced footed globes in many sizes. The New England Glass
globes were blown in one piece, like the pair of globes shown
Below, Left. Others, made according to a patent by edward
Dithridge (below, right) were constructed by joining a globe to a
pedestal stem, like the single globe below. Gazing globes are
sometimes referred to as "Butler's Balls," or "silent Butlers" for
they may have been used on banquet tables that service staff could
observe the guests unobtrusively. They were never made as wig
stands, but were likely also used as ornamenture. Silvered mercury
glass globes are rare to find, and command much higher prices than
most table ware or vases.
Edward Dithridge, of Pittsburgh, PA, was granted patent No. 70,325, "Improved
Process of manufacturing silvered glassware," on October 29, 1867. The method
provided for a globe, attached to a holder, or stand.
