Appreciating Printed Mid-Century Glassware

Vessels for drinking have been around for centuries, but one of the high points in that history is the printed glassware that exploded in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. Mid-century glassware along with caddies and carry-alls helped define the entertainment of the era.

Getting together with friends for dinner or drinks was a huge part of the social fabric of the day. Entertaining at home was de riguer for the American housewife in the 1950s and 60s. Owning a collection of glassware for various types of beverages became an important part of the burgeoning middle-class social structure.

There were glasses for everything from sipping lemonade on the porch to well-drinks mixed at the bar in the den. Many companies produced collections with a large variety of matching glassware. Often sets of six or eight glass came in wire caddies for ease of carrying. As a hostess, this was a helpful boon as you were able to pour drinks and bring them to guests all at once. The caddy also served as a way to corral glassware when not in use. 

One of the most popular patterns of the day was Golden Foilage introduced by Libby Glass in 1966. According to their website, it is the largest-selling decorated glassware pattern. My mother had a complete set as I recall.

Patterned glassware was hugely popular during this time. There were many companies that made both patterned glassware as well as blanks to be decorated by other companies. Some date back as far as the early 1800s such as Libby Glass while others began as late as 1970. For an interesting list of vintage glassware brands, Lilly at Southern Vintage Wares has compiled this list.

Do you collect or sell mid-century glassware? If so tell us about your favorite brands or patterns below in the comments. 

Meanwhile, here is a recipe for old-fashioned lemonade, just right for a summer evening refresher.

Juice 6 large fresh lemons to make approximately 1 cup of lemon juice, add 1 cup of sugar and six cups of water. Mix thoroughly and chill until ready to use. Add some lemon slices to the pitcher for a bit of color. 

If you’re a fan of mid-century glassware, you may want to read our post on Blendo Glassware.