A Clear Perspective: Exploring the Storied History of Glass

A Clear Perspective: Exploring the Storied History of Glass

Deon Knoetze
In ancient Mesopotamia, around 3500 BCE, the remarkable journey of glass began. Early artisans, working with naturally occurring glass like obsidian, shaped rudimentary tools and ornaments, setting the foundation for what would become a fascinating history. But it wasn't until the Roman Empire that glass truly came into its own. The first-century BCE invention of glassblowing revolutionized its production, making glass containers, tableware, and decorative items readily available. This innovation quickly spread to regions like the Middle East and Asia, propelling glass into the realm of mass production.