Various Gatherings: April of 1919
Unveiling the Allaire Collection of Ancient Glass: A Treasure Trove of History and Art
The Allaire Collection of Ancient Glass is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and artistry of glassmaking spanning over 3000 years. This specialized collection, amassed by Carole Allaire and her husband over the past 25 years, offers a unique insight into various historical periods and cultures through the lens of glassmaking.
The Allaire Collection originated with a focus on ancient glass artifacts, particularly from key historical periods known for their glassmaking prowess. These periods include the Classical Antiquity era, the early medieval and late antique periods, and more, showcasing significant developments in glass craftsmanship and technology.
The collection's first acquisition, although specific details are not explicitly available, likely set the stage for the subsequent growth of the collection around these thematic and chronological foci. This initial acquisition could have been sourced from archaeological contexts or early collectors specializing in antiquities.
The Allaire Collection features a wide range of resources, including images, footnotes, articles, and more, all accessible at ancientglass.wordpress.com. The collection includes Roman glass, Frankish glass (Merovingian glass), Medieval glass, Venetian glass & Facon de Venise, European, English, Spanish, and American glass, all made before 1850.
One of the earliest purchases by the Allaires was a two-handed perfume bottle from the 3rd century A.D. in New York, which ignited their fascination with the beauty of ancient glass and the way light was reflected in these timeless objects. Their initial interest in modern studio glass soon gave way to the discovery of ancient Roman glass, leading them to build their collection around these captivating artifacts.
Through the Allaire Collection, we can gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of glassmaking techniques, the cultural significance of glass artifacts, and the enduring allure of these ancient treasures. For those interested in delving deeper into the history of the Allaire Collection, I recommend consulting publications or archives of the museum or institution that houses the collection, or scholarly works on ancient glass collections that might provide further insights into its formation and acquisitions.
The Allaire Collection, despite its primary focus on ancient glass, expanded into other areas of interest, such as home-and-garden lifestyle, as evidenced by the inclusion of decorative glass items from various periods. The expanded collection not only offers a glimpse into the lifestyle trends of past eras but also provides a comparison between the artistry of ancient glass and the designs of modern home-and-garden products.
