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 The circle
is a perfect shape, so full of symbolism and history. It has
been used by mankind in so many ways, through the ages. Think of
the stone circles - Stonehenge for example - where it embodies
the ultimate cosmic order. Or consider the symbolism of the
serpent Ouroboros, that bites, devours and eats its own tail in
a circle that represents the cyclic Nature of the Universe.
Creation out of destruction - Life out of Death - the Wheel of
Life.
Visually perfect, the circle has a beguiling simplicity. It
looks so uncomplicated and basic - but have you ever tried to
draw one without resorting to a compass or similar device? It’s
almost impossible to produce a freehand circle. And of course,
as a design motif, the circle has been used throughout the ages,
for both its symbolism as well as its perfection of form.
So where do we find circles in Carnival Glass patterns? Why,
simply everywhere!
There are some patterns where the circle motif IS the
pattern. Nothing else, just the circle (or circles). Without
iridescence the result could be rather plain - but with
iridescence the result is almost always breathtaking. Note: Click on an image to the right to
see a larger version in a new window.
 Imperial’s
Scroll Embossed is a magnificent example of the power of
the circle to mesmerize. The repetition of the shape (both
overlapping as well as copied symmetrically in each quadrant)
holds the eye. The magnificent iridescence on virtually all
examples of this item adds to the hypnotic quality of the
design.
 Imperial’s
Cobblestones design is composed of a myriad of tiny
circles. The iridescence seems to dip and dive over the surface,
shimmering here and there with pinks, purples, greens and blues.
 Brockwitz
Moonprint pattern is a captivating, repeated circle
pattern that is found on an astonishing range of shapes. The
iridescence is usually top quality and is reminiscent of pools
of light dappling the surface.
 Eda
Glasbruk’s Kulor design is only known on vases - but what
magnificent vases they are! The sophisticated elegance of the
design allows for the beautiful iridescence to be fully
appreciated.
 Northwood’s
Tornado vases, as well as the Tornado Variants have a
design that primarily features the repeated circle motif (the
peacock feather’s “eye”). It transfixes and dominates these
lovely vases.
Then there are patterns where the circle shape is integral
to the design and enhances or strengthens the pattern in some
way.
 In
Dugan’s Circle Scroll the round motifs (filled with
stylized foliage) are made prominent by the vertically striped
background.
 In
Dugan’s Windflower note how the circle is used to draw
the pattern together by the use of an encircling medallion
shape.
 Northwood’s
Beaded Cable has circles formed by a lazy S that curves
around the design. Tiny beads, glittering with iridescence, form
smaller circles within.
 Fenton’s
Horse Head Medallion design cleverly uses the circles to
highlight the different motifs that make up the pattern.
 Karhula’s
Britt design is simple yet elegantly stylish.
And then there are patterns where the circles are hidden
within the design. They are not one of the first things you
notice about the pattern, but as you study it, you begin to see
the circles.
 Fenton’s
Captive Rose is a magnificently intricate “embroidery”
design. Can you see the circles?
I’ll tell you some more patterns where the circles are
hidden, and instead of showing you where they are I’ll leave you
with the fun of finding them yourself. Look at an Imperial
Broken Arches punch bowl (peek inside the punch bowl and what do
you see?) How about Jain’s Beaded Spears pattern - can you see
the mirror like circles? And when you think of the wonderful
Millersburg patterns Bernheimer Brothers and Many Stars, can you
think where the circles in the pattern might be? Stars of
course, are the dominant motif - but it’s the use of the circle
that draws together the entire design.
Perhaps you have a moment to take a fresh look at some of
your Carnival patterns. Can you see any circles? Are they hiding
within the design somewhere? Or do they dominate the pattern?
The circle is such a perfect shape of course, so full of
symbolism and history. Oh goodness, that’s how I began this
article. Looks like we’ve gone full circle
Copyright 2006, G&S Thistlewood. All Rights
Reserved.
Photos are Copyright G&S Thistlewood, 2006. |
