Model of the Steamboat 'The Republic'

Currently not on view

Model of the Steamboat 'The Republic'

c. 1900

Franz Brandt (American (active Philadelphia), 1895–1906)

Franz Brandt created this remarkably intricate model using a traditional technique known as lampwork. Employing thin rods of blown glass that were heated, joined, and manipulated into shape, Brandt slowly built up the forms layer by fragile layer. His inspiration for the piece was the paddle-wheel excursion ship The Republic, which plied the waters of the Delaware River from 1878 to 1904. The ship carried passengers from Philadelphia to Cape May, New Jersey, for one dollar round trip.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Model of the Steamboat 'The Republic'
Glass Whimsey of Steamboat and Clipper Ship

Date:

c. 1900

Artist:

Franz Brandt (American (active Philadelphia), 1895–1906)

Medium:

Glass lampwork, cotton, wood, mica

Dimensions:

Overall with dome and base: 12 3/8 x 16 x 15 inches (31.5 x 40.6 x 38.1 cm) Steamboat (approx.): 9 1/8 x 15 1/2 x 5 1/8 inches (23.2 x 39.4 x 13 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

125th Anniversary Acquisition. Purchased with funds contributed by Hannah L. and J. Welles Henderson and other donors, 2001

Accession Number:

2001-82-1

Geography:

Probably made in New Jersey, United States, North and Central America or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North and Central America

Context:

Period: Victorian

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Currently not on view