The Bulls Eye

Crown glass was the most commonly used type of glass for window panes until the 19th century. The process was first perfected by French glassmakers in the 1320s and kept a trade secret for many years. Crown glass began to be made in London in 1678.

Window panes were made by blowing a bubble, then spinning it until flat. This produced a sheet of glass that left a bump, or crown, in the centre. The thinnest, most desirable glass was at the edge of the disk while the glass became thicker and more opaque toward the centre. This thickening of the centre piece produced a distortion through which everything looked curiously wavy, and the glass itself was seen to be faulty and uneven. Thus, the 'bulls eye' was reserved for less expensive homes or for the more inconspicuous windows in costlier dwellings.

By the end of the 19th century, mass-produced flat glass, such as my grandfather and uncle used to install in school houses, replaced the old method. However, this once least desirable portion of crown glass has become the 'in thing' to have in one's home with a price tag to match. Curious, items that once were considered least desirable have become priceless.

This photo was taken of an office window pane along the docks in Liverpool but I've found crown glass being installed in upscale restaurants of Maidenhead and trendy home remodellings.

I do hope that you enjoy my sharing yet another example of new knowledge I've gained since coming to England. Wishing you happy wanderings and unanticipated encounters as well.