Glassware and Pottery at Antick

The manufacture of glass was one of the earliest American trades. Techniques of the 17th century are still practiced in Williamsburg, Virginia by master glassblowers John Pierce and David Byerly. Their beautiful, hand-blown pieces reflect their combined 40+ years of experience in working with glass, as well as their knowledge of old glassware.



Julia Smith has been making historical reproduction pottery since 1983. Acclaimed by working archaeologists, museum professionals, and living historians alike, her work is displayed, offered for sale, and used at The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; Plimoth Plantation; Jamestown; Colonial Deerfield; Saint Marie's City; and many other sites, as well as in the homes and personal kits of reenactors across the country.


Extensive research precedes the creation of every piece and all are based on specific originals; dimensions, cross-section, clay body, construction, and finishing treatments all follow those of the prototype. The single exception to this policy is in the area of glazes; all glazes used are lead-free, allowing the pieces to be used for food storage and service. Great care has been taken, however, to achieve as close a match as possible to the effect of the original glaze.