18th century Newcastle wine glass

Newcastle upon Tyne, in North East England, was a hub for glassmaking in the 17th and 18th centuries. The history of glassmaking in Newcastle dates back to the 16th century, but it wasn't until the 17th century that the industry really began to take off.

In the 17th century, glassmaking in Newcastle was dominated by two families: the Swinburnes and the Watsons. They established glasshouses on the banks of the River Tyne, taking advantage of the local supply of coal for fuel and sand for glassmaking. The Swinburnes glasshouses produced a range of high-quality glassware, including drinking glasses, window glass, and mirrors. They also developed a technique for producing clear glass, which was in high demand.

In the 18th century, the glass industry in Newcastle continued to thrive and the industry continued to produce a wide range of glassware, including tableware, mirrors, and ornamental glass. The glass was more... often decorated with intricate engraving or etching, and some pieces were painted with enamel or gilded.

Despite its success, the glass industry in Newcastle faced challenges in the 18th century. Competition from other glassmaking centres, such as Bristol and London, increased, and the high cost of fuel and raw materials made it difficult to compete. By the end of the 18th century, the glass industry in Newcastle had declined, but its legacy lives and Newcastle is still known for its glassmaking heritage. less...