Large Sunderland Bridge Blown and Etched Glass Rummer

The iron bridge over the river Wear at Sunderland was a major engineering feat and quite famous when it was constructed in 1796. The design was actually patented by Thomas Paine, who is better known for being the author of “Common Sense” and other writings in support of the American Revolution. The bridge continued to be considered a marvel well into the 19th century and this glass was actually in engraved in 1855, just a few years before its reconstruction in 1857.

Engraved “span 236 feet, height 100 feet” and “M. Wright, 1855” in a rectangle.

England mid 19th c.H: 7.5"W: 4.75"D: 4.75"Reference number: 28000