tumbler

Tavern Glass was a sought-after collectible that was much less expensive to make than either the colored specialties or the cut and engraved pieces. It was probably inspired by imported 19th-century German beer tumblers, and it appealed to people who were interested in America’s history. Tavern Glass was first produced as tumblers (tumblers were used in taverns for drinking beer, hence the name of the glass). When the line became popular, it was expanded to include other shapes, such as vases, plates, candlesticks, and centerpiece bowls. The decoration is enameled or engraved.