Gold glass, also known as gold sandwich glass, is an exquisite form of decorative glass that can add a touch of luxury to any setting. It is created by fusing a decorative design in gold leaf between two layers of glass. This art form dates back to Hellenistic Greece, and it was especially popular during the late Roman Empire in the 3rd and 4th centuries A.D.
One of the unique characteristics of gold glass is its use in the decoration of cups and other vessels. The gold decorated roundels that were used to adorn these vessels were often cut out and cemented to the walls of the catacombs of Rome as grave markers for the small recesses where the bodies were buried. These gold glass pieces became an integral part of the funerary art of the time, and about 500 pieces of them have been recovered.
Although complete vessels made of gold glass are far rarer, the few that do exist often show religious imagery from Christianity, traditional Greco-Roman religion, and its various cultic developments. Some even feature depictions of Judaism. Others depict portraits of their owners, and the finest examples of these portraits are "among the most vivid portraits to survive from Early Christian times. They stare out at us with an extraordinary stern and melancholy intensity."
The popularity of gold glass continued to grow, and by the 1st century A.D. it was also being used for the gold color in mosaics. These mosaics were often used to depict scenes from religious stories, and the use of gold glass allowed for an added touch of luxury and elegance.
Today, gold glass is still coveted for its unique beauty and rarity. While it was once used exclusively for funerary art, it is now often used in modern jewelry making and other decorative art forms. The art of creating gold glass is still practiced, although it is a highly specialized process that requires a great deal of skill and expertise.
In conclusion, gold glass is a luxury form of glass that has been cherished by civilizations throughout history. Its beauty and elegance make it a unique and prized addition to any collection. Whether used for funerary art or modern jewelry making, the technique of creating gold glass remains a highly specialized and esteemed art form.