This Early American Pattern Glass platter, made by Adams Glass Co. circa 1881, features the intricate Thousand Eyes pattern, known for its unique raised texture. Crafted from vaseline glass, it has that signature glow under UV light that uranium glass collectors seek. In excellent condition for its age, this rare platter is a great example of 19th-century American glassmaking and would be a beautiful addition to any EAPG or uranium glass collection.

Measuring 10 inches on each side and 1.5 inches tall, the square platter presents like a delicate handkerchief or napkin with its corners gracefully folded back. Though there are no discernable marks, this tray is well documented in Adams Glass references online. In excellent condition for its age with no chips or cracks.
 

About Adams Glass Company

Adams Glass Company was a significant American glass manufacturer during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Founded in 1861 by George S. Adams in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company specialized in producing Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG), which was extremely popular during the Victorian era.

Adams Glass became known for its innovative patterns and affordable glassware, which often mimicked the appearance of more expensive, hand-cut glass. The company was particularly renowned for its "Wildflower" pattern, as well as a variety of other intricate designs. Some patterns produced by Adams were designed in-house, but they also worked with external designers. One of their innovative designs was the "Square," where the pieces had square bases, which was uncommon during the time when most tableware pieces had round forms.

Adams Glass was one of the pioneers in mass-producing pressed glassware. The use of molds allowed for the creation of intricate designs that were affordable for the average household, a significant innovation in the glass industry at the time.

Adams Glass faced several economic challenges, including the economic downturn in the 1870s and increased competition from European glassmakers. Despite these challenges, they thrived by focusing on affordable, decorative glassware for the growing middle class.

In 1891, the company became part of the United States Glass Company, a consolidation of many glass manufacturers to help stabilize the competitive glass market. The company continued to produce glassware under the U.S. Glass umbrella, and some patterns made by Adams Glass continued to be marketed under their name for years after the merger.

The company's glassware is highly collectible today, with many pieces sought after by collectors of EAPG. Their work exemplifies the high quality and attention to detail that defined American glassmaking during this era.
 

About the Thousand Eye Pattern

The Thousand Eyes pattern, also known as the Dewdrop pattern, is one of the more iconic patterns produced by Adams Glass Company. This pattern was introduced in the 1880s and is highly recognizable due to its distinctive texture, consisting of raised, closely spaced "eyes" or circular bumps that give the piece a beaded or dewdrop-like appearance.

The pattern was typically produced in clear glass, though some pieces can be found in colors such as blue or amber. Thousand Eyes was made in a variety of glassware forms, including table sets, serving pieces, and decorative items.

The design was both functional and decorative, giving the glass a unique light-reflecting quality, which made it popular during the Victorian era when ornate glass was in demand. The Thousand Eyes pattern's design was likely inspired by natural elements, particularly dewdrops on leaves, reflecting the Victorian fascination with nature-inspired designs in glassware. Collectors today value pieces in this pattern for their beauty and craftsmanship, and it remains a sought-after example of Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG).

Discover more in our marketplace where we often feature depression glass or uranium glass for sale.
 

Notes:

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