A comprehansive study of glass made or used in America from the middle of the 17th century to the middle of the 19th centry. Opening with a survey of glassmaking in Europe and the colonies, the author provides a brief history of the acquisition of glass by Henry Francis du Pont whose massive 1500-piece collection at the Winterthur Museum is the basis for this book. Du Pont began collecting glass in 1919 and did so until his death in 1969. This volume covers drinking glasses, food service items, ornamental vases and desk accessories, lighting devices, bottles and flasks, and miscellaneouss items ranging from windowpanes to bird fountains. The objects are arranged according to function; nearly all are shown life-size; and the entry for each includes both a physical description and a brief history.