Thomas Webb & Sons Syrena Cameo Vase by George Woodall

Of all the glassworks created in the second half of the 19th century, the most difficult to perfect were those done in cameo. Very few artisans ever achieved success in hand-crafting cameo glass, and by far, the most accomplished of these craftsmen was the firm of Thomas Webb and Co. Webb’s cameo masterpieces were far finer than those of any of their major French contemporaries. The most important cameo artisan at Webb was George Woodall, and his greatest creations were his cameo vases done in the neoclassical style, depicting young maidens. These creations are exceptionally rare and seldom come on the market.

This intricately crafted figural vase exemplifies why Woodall is credited with elevating the art of cameo glass to new heights. The central figure, a siren playing the harp, is rendered with stunning precision. Her ethereal nature is enhanced by the contrast between the opaque white figure and the rich underlying colors, creating a serene yet powerful composition.

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 George and his brother Thomas Woodall, as well as art director James O’Fallon, who played pivotal roles in developing new cameo glass designs. George Woodall, the master cameo artist, was instrumental in the success of Thomas Webb & Sons. Renowned for his intricate and refined cameo work, Woodall’s pieces are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, solidifying his legacy within the world of fine glassmaking.

Similar examples have sold in auction for over two-hundred thousand dollars. See link here

Inscribed “Geo. Woodall / Syrena”

Circa 1914

8 1/2" high x 4" in diameter

Literature:
Arthur Churchill Ltd., Glass Notes, no. 8, London 1948, pp. 22-24, fig. 15
Geoffrey W. Beard, Nineteenth Century Cameo Glass, Newport 1956, p. 91, cited
E Barrington-Haynes, Glass Through the Ages, pl. 43, fig. C
Christopher Woodall Perry, The Cameo Glass of Thomas and George Woodall, Shepton Beauchamp 2000, p. 91, illus.

Provenance:
Arthur Churchill Glass, bearing label
Dr. M. Mitman, Dartford (by 1956)
Sotheby's London, November 14th, 1995, lot 428
Private Collection, New York
M.S. Rau, New Orleans