Physophora Magnifica
Blaschka Nr. 213
Physophora magnifica (1885)
Physophora hydrostatica (2016)
Leopold Blaschka (Bohemian, 1822-1895)
Rudolph Blaschka (Bohemian, 1857-1939)
Made in Germany, Dresden, before 1885
Lampworked glass
We think of glass as a stable material, but it can deteriorate. Unstable glass compositions, along with moisture in the air, cause glass to lose its structural integrity over centuries, years, or even weeks. There is no way to stop deterioration once it begins, but conservators can slow it down by controlling its environment and by periodically cleaning the glass. Many Baschka models are constructed with hollow shapes, which trap moisture and cause deterioration. Conservators found signs of glass deterioration in the form of whit crystals and liquid droplets on many models including this sea jelly.
Cornell University acquired their teaching collection in 1885. Corning Museum Of Glass has worked with them to preserve and repair the models. They are presenting the Fragile Legacy exhibition in the context of both marine life and glass conservation.
Physophora Magnifica
Blaschka Nr. 213
Physophora magnifica (1885)
Physophora hydrostatica (2016)
Leopold Blaschka (Bohemian, 1822-1895)
Rudolph Blaschka (Bohemian, 1857-1939)
Made in Germany, Dresden, before 1885
Lampworked glass
We think of glass as a stable material, but it can deteriorate. Unstable glass compositions, along with moisture in the air, cause glass to lose its structural integrity over centuries, years, or even weeks. There is no way to stop deterioration once it begins, but conservators can slow it down by controlling its environment and by periodically cleaning the glass. Many Baschka models are constructed with hollow shapes, which trap moisture and cause deterioration. Conservators found signs of glass deterioration in the form of whit crystals and liquid droplets on many models including this sea jelly.
Cornell University acquired their teaching collection in 1885. Corning Museum Of Glass has worked with them to preserve and repair the models. They are presenting the Fragile Legacy exhibition in the context of both marine life and glass conservation.