Cameo’s Close-Up

The cameo glass technique dates back to about 30 B.C. in ancient Rome, when it was used as an alternative to engraved vessels made of naturally layered semi-precious gemstones. Cameo glass is created by engraving, etching, or otherwise carving through fused layers of differently colored glass—traditionally opaque white over a darker colored background—and the Romans found it provided more consistent results than natural stones.

The Portland Vase. Image courtesy of the British Museum

The most celebrated example of the technique, the legendary Portland Vase, was made between 1 and 25 A.D. Discovered in Italy around 1600, it found its first home in the collection of the powerful Barberini family of Rome (hence its original name, the Barberini Vase). The Dowager Duchess of Portland (the wealthiest woman in Great Britain of her time) acquired the vase in 1784 and subsequently placed it in the collection of the British Museum, London, in 1810, where it has remained ever since.

The Portland Vase’s presence in England helped inspire a widespread revival of the cameo glass technique by artisans and companies wishing to emulate the technical achievements of an ancient and revered society.

Thomas Webb & Sons, founded by Thomas Wilkes Webb in 1837, was one such company. Webb brought quality engraved crystal and colored glass to the market and enjoyed such success that he earned the title of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. At the same time, his company became known as “The Crystal King of England.” Following his death in 1869, his sons hired many skilled artisans, including George and Thomas Woodall, intending to encourage more creativity and further expand the company’s success. George was exceptionally gifted at figural engravings and often used classical subjects, as witnessed in an impressive “Cupid in Disgrace” plaque (at right) that sold for $100,800 during the “Art Nouveau | Art Deco Glass & Lighting” event at Rago Auctions in July.

George Woodall for Thomas Webb & Sons exceptional Gem Cameo glass
“Cupid in Disgrace” plaque, England, c. 1892. 13″ in dia. $100,800.
Image courtesy of Rago Auctions.

The company distinguished its most exquisitely executed and highly valuable works with the mark of ‘Gem Cameo,’ which is itself a reference to the Romans’ original process of engraving semi-precious stones like agate and onyx. The “Cupid” plaque bears the mark, further reinforcing its originality, rarity, and beauty within the company’s output, and is an enduring testament to its artistry and craftsmanship.

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