Charming set of Belgian uranium glass (Scailmont?), including two molded glass lidded boxes and a matching trinket dish. This luminous glass, tinted with uranium oxide, reveals a spectacular fluorescent green glow under UV light.
Uranium glass, also known as Vaseline glass, is colored using uranium oxides. This process gives it a hue ranging from light green to lemon yellow. One of its most remarkable characteristics is that it becomes fluorescent under ultraviolet (UV) light, emitting an intense green glow.
The use of uranium in glass dates back to 1830, with the chemist Martin Klaproth who discovered uranium in 1789. However, it was mainly in the 19th century that uranium glass gained popularity, particularly in Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic) and England. Production reached its peak during the Victorian era (1837-1901), where it was prized for decorative objects such as vases, bowls, and also perfume bottles. Production declined after World War II, notably due to concerns about radioactivity (although the level in these objects is very low and safe under normal use).
This uranium glass, also called "Vaseline glass", becomes fluorescent under ultraviolet light due to the properties of uranium. It is harmless in this use, but it gives glassware a unique, aesthetically prized luster.
🌿 Features
• Period: early 20th century
• Probable origin: Bohemia or Germany
• Molded and cut yellow Vaseline glass, brilliant luster
• Dimensions: small box: diameter 8 cm, height 4.5 cm, weight 313 g. / large box: diameter 8 cm, height 6.5 cm, weight 427 g. / trinket dish diameter 16 cm, height 4 cm, weight 415 g.
• Complete and harmonious set
• Condition: excellent
🎁 A rare and decorative lot, perfect for enhancing a dressing table, enriching a collection of curiosities, or offering an original gift.
Free delivery to Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
Careful shipping.