Sunday, February 26, 2017
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Higgins Studio: Fish Design Glass Art Ashtray, c. 1950s
Original handmade fish design ashtray, signed Higgins, c. 1950s.
Michael and Frances Higgins, who met at the Chicago Institute of Design, were pioneers in glass fusing, or a "glass sandwich." A design is created on a piece of enamel-coated glass. Over this, another piece of enameled glass is laid. The pieces are then placed on a mold and heated. Under heat, the glass “slumps” to the shape of the mold. The design itself is fused between the outer glass pieces, with additional layers adding to the texture and color.
Originally the studio operated out of their Chicago apartment until 1957 when it was relocated as a result of a partnership with Dearborn Glass Company of Chicago. During that time, they produced a wide range of products until 1966 when they returned to private studio work, with their studio located in Riverside, Illinois.
Michael died in 1999 and Francis in 2004.
This ashtray is 1/2-inch in height and is rectangular in shape that is 5" in width by 7" in length. It is signed with the freehand gold Higgins Dearborn Signature.
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
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