This is a detail of a long blowpipe used in glass-making. The pipe dates from the mid 19th century and is made of wrought iron. The detail shows the working end.
One of a group of specimens illustrating the manufacture of crown, sheet and plate glass - tool or model - a blowing pipe or tube, possibly for sheet glass
Glass is made by melting at very high temperatures silica, from sand or flint, with soda or potash. Small quantities of iron cause green colours, often found in early glass. Melting is done in covered fireclay pots set into arches in a cone structure with a central furnace.
To search on related items, click any underlined text below.