Collecting Old Glass, English and Irish

This compact guide walks listeners through the fascinating world of eighteenth‑ and early nineteenth‑century English and Irish glass, from plain blown pieces to intricately cut and engraved examples. It highlights the distinctive qualities that make historic glass so appealing—the cool ring, the satiny feel, the sparkle of facets, and the subtle stories each shape carries. Along the way, the narrative touches on the cultural backdrop, mentioning Jacobite and Williamite cups, celebratory punch bowls, and the genteel habit of bringing treasured glasses back to the table.

Drawing on decades of personal collecting, the author offers clear classifications, handy tests for authenticity, and practical warnings that help avoid common pitfalls. Illustrations feature representative pieces from the author’s own cabinet and from generous fellow collectors, giving listeners vivid mental images without demanding scale precision. Whether you’re just beginning to wonder about a single bowl or planning a well‑curated display, the podcast version makes the essential rules and charming anecdotes easy to follow.