18th Century Glass Grog Jug with Handle

Product Description

This 18th Century Glass Grog Jug with Handle is fabricated by Phil Gilson, a master glassblower in Lawrenceville, Virginia, using techniques handed down by generations of artisans in Gilson's family. This reproduction piece is designed for drinking directly from the jug. Use this reproduction glass jug at re-enactment events, locations where historical accuracy is required or desired, or as a unique addition to your Colonial Williamsburg collectibles display at home. 

Please note that this is a handmade item. The bottle you receive may vary slightly from the picture shown on our website.

Features

• Reproduction 18th century glass grog jug
• Measures approximately 7"H x 6" diameter; 1 1/4" diameter opening
• 24 oz. capacity
• Hand-made in the USA by Phil Gilson
• Historically accurate bottle-glass color

Inspiration

Grog was introduced to sailors of the British Navy in 1740 by Admiral Edward "Grog" Vernon of the British Navy. Grog was a concoction of rum, water, and lemon or lime, and was created primarily to prevent scurvy. A print of Admiral Vernon by Thomas Gainsborough (object #1990-68) is housed in the collections of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

About the Artist

Phil Gilson might be the last colonial American-style glassblower working full-time in the traditions developed in the 18th Century. A cousin of the Wistars, owners of America's first successful glass operation, Gilson's craft has been a passion and a family legacy since the 1730s.

Gilson focuses most of his work on producing and perpetuating designs for historic homes, museums, schools, and the living history and re-enacting community. He makes many pieces using original molds and hand tools handed down for generations. Gilson is the last of two known master chippers in the country. Chipping is the trade of carving directly into cast-iron glass molds to re-create embossed bottles and flasks of the past. The custom carvings enable Gilson to produce modern commemorative interpretations by placing interchangeable inserts in antique molds. His work also includes custom free-blown, pressed glass, and dip-molded pieces. All of his work is well-documented and made in historical bottle-glass colors.

Early American Life magazine's esteemed directory of Traditional American Crafts includes Phil Gilson as a member.