Thomas Webb & Son Two-Handled Cameo Amphora Vase by Thomas Woodall

Of all the glassworks produced in the late 19th century, cameo glass was the most challenging to perfect. Only a handful of artisans succeeded in mastering this intricate craft, with the firm of Thomas Webb and Co. standing out as the most accomplished. Webb’s cameo masterpieces surpassed those of their major French contemporaries in finesse and artistry. At Webb, the renowned brothers Thomas and George Woodall managed the cameo glass operations, ensuring the creation of glassworks that are exceptionally rare and rarely seen on the market today.

This intricately crafted amphora vase exemplifies Thomas Woodall’s expertise as a designer. The two-handled vase stands gracefully, overlaid in opaque white, and carved through to the light brown glass underneath with foliate Berainesque ornament, leaf garlands and delicate flowers.

Born into a lineage of glassmakers, Thomas Wilkes Webb founded Thomas Webb & Sons in 1837, revolutionizing the market with high-quality engraved crystal and colored glass. His significant contributions earned him the title of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, and the company gained renown as "The Crystal King of England." After his death in 1869, his sons Thomas, Charles, and Walter further elevated the company by improving working conditions and fostering creativity among their craftsmen. They hired notable artisans Thomas and his brother George Woodall, as well as art director James O’Fallon, who played pivotal roles in developing new cameo glass designs. The Woodall brothers, the master cameo artists, were instrumental in the success of Thomas Webb & Sons. Renowned for their intricate and refined cameo work, Woodall’s works are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, solidifying his legacy within the world of fine glassmaking.

Circa 1884

7 1/2” high x 3 1/4” wide x 3 1/4” deep

Private collection, New York
M.S. Rau, New Orleans