Green Depression Glass Patterns
Green Depression glass patterns provide an intricate etching landscape for the dishes and glassware that provided cheer and access to beauty for struggling U.S. citizens during one of the toughest economic times in history - The Great Depression. The glass markings in Depression glass patterns could be some of the most ornate expressions, and the artistry required to make them called for nothing less than sheer patience and skill that could be its own religion.
Certain glass patterns were more popular in specific colors of glass. The "Cameo" pattern, for example, was common for green glass, though it could sometimes show up in yellow or pink glass on rare occasions. Also known as the "Ballerina" or "Dancing Girl" pattern, the etching for this flowery design depicted a dancing girl in a window-like casing surrounded by garland and flowers.
The fanciful pressed glass designs are slightly reminiscent of the cameo pendant jewelry (mostly brooches and necklaces tied with choker ribbons) that has come to signify wealth and influence.
The Doric design in green Depression glass patterns is very akin to the Doric column design in Greek architecture. Around the rim of a plate, these square, short column-like repetitions stood with no base at equal distances against a single circular line around the plate.
The Georgian pattern takes a few leads from Georgian architecture with its focus on symmetry and classical rules. Many green Depression glass patterns created in the Georgian tradition were also called "Lovebirds" patterns. Two facing birds at equal height were typically worked into the design.
Spiral or "Swirl" designs gave texture to ordinary glass. Its twists could be either pressed into the glass or included as part of the blown glass design of plates, drinking glasses and other glassware. Some modern throwbacks on this theme have been able to keep the Spiral pattern for clear glass, making the visual effects for contemporary dishes with this design spectacular. You are almost always drawn to touch it.
Royal lace was also extremely popular for green Depression glass patterns. Its elegant curves and crests evoke the delicacy of lace handkerchiefs or lace tablecloths. It is a fitting pattern for glassware intended to elevate the spirits of Depression-era workers, whose toughest daily hurdles were finding enough money to eat and keeping a steady job. The glass was an affordable way to still have luxury.
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Michelle · 
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Tags: ballerina pattern, cameo pattern, dancing girl pattern, depression glass, glass etching, glass patterns, Green Depression Glass, green depression glass patterns, green glass vase, press glass patterns, the great depression, vintage glass · Posted in: Collecting Depression Glass, Green Depression Glass
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Interesting article. Georgian by Federal Glass, which is the only Georgian pattern to have birds and is nicknamed Lovebirds, is one of my favorite patterns.
Thank you for sharing.
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