Flask, 1840-1855

01

Artifact Overview

Glass factories in America began producing inexpensive, mold-formed flasks in the early 1800s. These figured flasks, often decorated with phrases and symbols of national pride, appealed to the common man. Baltimore's Battle Monument adorns one side of this flask. On the other side is the often-repeated phrase "Liberty and Union" -- first used by Daniel Webster in an 1830 speech.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Flask (Bottle)

Date Made

1840-1855

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

60.10.47

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Glass (Material)
Mold-blown glass

Technique

Glassblowing
Blow molding

Color

Purple

Dimensions

Height: 6.375 in
Width: 4.625 in
Length: 2 in
Weight: 10 oz

Inscriptions

on front: BALTIMORE on back: LIBERTY & UNION
Flask, 1840-1855