Gifts of Grandeur: A Chinese Layer-Cut Glass Vase, c. 1736

Chinese Vase of Layer-Cut Glass, 1736
The Victoria & Albert Museum

“Layer cut glass” is a technique of glass-making where in one layer of glass, usually of a different color, is cast on top of another.  Next,  part of the top layer is cut away in a decorative pattern which reveals the layer beneath.

This example of brilliant red and turquoise glass comes from China and was made around 1736.  The design consists of a lobster, a lotus flower and other assorted shellfish. Layer cut glass has long been considered a specialty of Chinese glass makers who continue with the tradition to this day.