This Steuben aurene perfume atomizer with a blue iridescent finish is an exquisite example of early 20th-century American glassmaking. Steuben Glass, founded in 1903 in Corning, New York, quickly established itself as a premier producer of art glass. The company was renowned for its innovative techniques and stunning designs, particularly during its early years under the direction of Frederick Carder. Frederick Carder was born in England in 1863, he moved to the United States and co-founded Steuben Glass Works. He lived in Corning, New York until his death in 1963. 

This perfume atomizer is created out of aurene, a type of ornamental glass that was developed by Carder in 1904. Aurene glass is characterized by its iridescent, lustrous surface that seems to glow from within. The blue variation exhibits a mesmerizing range of hues, from deep sapphire to ethereal sky blue, depending on how light interacts with its surface. 

The atomizer’s form features the elegant, organic shapes typical of Art Nouveau design, popular during Steuben’s early period. Its function as a perfume dispenser speaks to the luxury and refinement associated with Steuben products.

This piece not only serves as a beautiful decorative object but also as a testament to American artistic innovation and craftsmanship in the early 20th century. It represents a significant period in the history of glassmaking and stands as a shining example of Steuben’s enduring legacy in the world of art glass.

Sources: 

• https://steubenglass.org/shapes/?extra=form_vase&modern_title=&form=615&color=642%2C677&pnld=1
• https://intelligentcollector.com/collectors-guide-to-steuben-glass/
• https://www.artnet.com/artists/steuben-glass/
• https://whatson.cmog.org/exhibitions-galleries/local-color-secrets-steuben-glass
• https://www.cmog.org/audio/blue-aurene-vase-381
• https://www.incollect.com/articles/unexpected-color-a-journey-through-glass 
• https://www.themagazineantiques.com/article/the-expert-eye-stephen-milne-discusses-frederick-carder-at-steuben/
• https://fwmoa.blog/2022/12/19/now-on-view-iridescent-glass/
• https://www.ndga.net/articles/NDGASteuben/steuben.php