Video:Identifying the Bubble Depression Glass Pattern

Transcript:Identifying the Bubble Depression Glass Pattern

Hi, I'm Jacob Taxis for About.com. In this video, you will learn about the Bubble Depression glass pattern - what it is, where it comes from and how to properly care for it.

Identifying Bubble Depression Glass

Known also as Bullseye and Provincial glass, the Bubble glass pattern is identified with much ease. Produced in a variety of colors – red and green being the most popular - the pattern consists of concentric rows of glass bubbles that line the outside of every piece. This reflects light at a variety of angles, providing for a beautiful range of colors and shades. This quality gives the piece an intriguing, otherworldly look. The bubbles are not only inviting to the eye, they are also smooth to the touch.

Example of Bubble Glass

For example, let's take a look at this Bubble glass cup and saucer. You can see how the bubbles seem to reach out from the cup itself – creating a smooth satisfying texture. For the saucer, the rows of bubbles that circle the ray-pattern center enlarge as they move out toward the edge of the dish. Like the bubbles on the cup, those on the saucer seem to pour off of the side of the piece. This creates a fluid, sloping ridge that lines the outer edge of the saucer. It's easy to mistake patterns like Hobnail for Bubble glass. The difference is that Hobnail glass will display protruding knobs much like those found on the sole of a work-boot. Bubble glass will protrude only slightly from the glass – the bubbles themselves holding to a more subtle, orb shape.

History of Bubble Glass

Bubble Depression glass was manufactured by the Anchor Hocking Glass Company from the mid-1930's to the mid-1960's. Therefore, it is technically not a Depression glass but was nonetheless manufactured in mass quantities for minimal cost. The company issued an entire dinner set in the Bubble pattern. Therefore, from candlesticks to pitchers, Bubble glassware is quite inexpensive and plentiful.

Caring for Bubble Depression Glass

Like any antique glassware, keep your Bubble Depression glass out of direct sunlight. Storing your glass close to air vents can also pose a problem as extreme temperature changes can warp and damage your antique glassware. When you clean it, be sure to wash your glass with a lint-free cloth or a sponge using mild dish soap — not bleach. It's helpful to wash your Bubble glass in a large plastic bowl or in a sink lined with a towel to protect it from chipping. Also, keep in mind that your antique glass can crack when exposed to extreme variations in temperature. Be sure to allow your glass to reach room temperature before you wash it – and allow it to air-dry when possible.

With its inviting texture and intriguing look, Bubble Depression glass has continued to excite collectors the world over. It remains a beautiful and charming addition to any glass collection. Thank you for watching. For more, visit About.com.