Tablescaping has been popular for a while, but we can all agree that it has hit the mainstream post-pandemic. Instagram feeds have been flooded with images of scalloped tablecloths, brightly coloured napkins and patterned tableware also saw a huge uptick in popularity. Trickling down from this is the trend for vintage glassware. Away with simple and plain wine glasses, there is a growing popularity for coloured and engraved versions, from tumblers to decanters, vintage glass is where the market is at.
18th and 19th century glassware can often be purchased at auction for less than modern glasses whilst being more aesthetically beautiful with coloured air-twist stems. Many of the examples found at auction are ‘Sunderland Bridge’ – glasses and rummers which have been engraved to commemorate the completion of the famous Sunderland Bridge in 1796.
Sunderland Bridge glassware was created throughout the mid to late 19th century, and generally features detailed engravings of ships passing beneath the Sunderland Bridge, some detail the dimensions of the bridge, whilst others are personalised with initials. The original pieces were made for the major opening of the Bridge on 9th August 1796, an event which saw some serious fanfare and around 50,000 people in attendance, and which was capitalised on by glassmakers and those selling commemorative wares.
With their traditional shapes but elaborate patterns, Sunderland Bridge pieces are currently seeing a resurgence in popularity. In the Fine Sale in June, we offered a series of Sunderland Bridge pieces, with two tumblers achieving £240 and a single rummer achieving £200. Some of the most popular examples are those which have a ‘lemon squeezer’ base, as can be seen below.
Lot 174, A Sunderland Bridge glass rummer, with lemon squeezer base. Estimate £200 - £400, available at The Fine Sale on 22nd September.
Coming into the Fine Sale on 22nd September are a number of Sunderland Bridge pieces, with one of the highlights being four similar style rummers, which have an estimate of £300 - £500. Consigned from a local collection, these would prove a worthy investment for someone looking to add an extra layer of style to their tablescape, whilst also buying something which comes with a ton of history attached.
Lot 173, four similar Sunderland Bridge glass rummers. Estimate £300 - £500, available at The Fine Sale on 22nd September.
To view the Sunderland Bridge glasses in the sale, please click here.