Every day, humanity enjoys the fruits of the labor of glass workers. Now the material has become commonplace and widespread, and when buying another piece of glassware, no one is surprised, and only subtle, highly artistic work is admired. It is hard to imagine that once instead of the usual sheet glass the windows of ordinary people were covered by a bull bubble or burbot skin. Mica windows were the pinnacle of luxury and envy, not to mention glassware that was worth its weight in gold. Ancient masters sometimes had to pay for the secrets of making such a familiar glass for us with their own lives.
Glass Worker Day
In Russia, a professional holiday glaziers It is no coincidence that the date is November 19, because it is the birthday of Mikhail Vasilievich Lomonosov, the greatest Russian scientist. He managed to create a unique technology for producing porcelain and multi-colored smalt, which was used to create many mosaic paintings. Commemorating an outstanding Russian scientist, since 2000, Glass Industry Day celebrate on his birthday.
How did you get the glass
Even a primitive man used glass of natural origin, making from obsidian and tektites simple tools and weapons - tips for arrows and spears, knives, scrapers and chopped. It is believed that the production of glass, like many other discoveries, happened by chance, and we owe this to those distant ancestors who, for cooking and firing pottery, arranged a hearth in sand pits. The temperature during the combustion of firewood and straw was sufficient so that the sand began to melt. He mixed with ash, forming a glassy mass. Clay pots with glaze elements found on the sides and on the bottom found on the sites of ancient settlements indicate this.
History of glass production
Glass products discovered during archaeological excavations in Egypt and southern Iraq indicate that the Sumerians and ancient Egyptians already more than five thousand years ago owned the art of making jewelry and mosaics from glass. The creations of the ancient masters were distinguished by a special grace, but were not transparent.
Glassmaking received a big impetus for development during the Roman Empire. Glass products have become an excellent commodity for trade, which has a beneficial effect on the development of its production. Alexandria, which was under the Roman protectorate, became the main center for the production of glass of that time. Masters were able to achieve transparency in the manufacture of glass by adding manganese oxide to ancient Egyptian recipes. The discovery, made that far day, may claim the title of "Day of the antiquity glass industry."
Glass began to be widely used in architecture: the era of stained glass began. In the Middle Ages, European craftsmen mastered the production of flat glass. They blew a hollow rectangular shape, and then cut and rolled it, getting flat sheets.
A huge contribution to the development of glass business was made by Venetian craftsmen. They used in their work all the latest technologies of that time. The concept of "Venetian glass" appeared, which in itself spoke of the quality and demand for these products. The secrets of making glass were strictly guarded, so it was strictly forbidden to hire foreign workers. Later, all the main production was transferred to the island of Murano. And to this day, visiting Italy, tourists are trying to purchase products from the famous Murano glass.
Glass production in Russia
Archaeological excavations indicate that the masters of Kievan Rus were well aware of the art of glass making, but this craft, like many others, was lost after the invasion of the Tatar-Mongols.
Glass Worker Day was still far from being approved, but already in 1630 a glass factory appeared in the village of Dukhanino near Moscow, and in 1669 the production of glass for palace needs began at the factory in Izmailovo. The Great Peter invites the best European craftsmen, and glasswork in Russia begins to develop rapidly. There are many state-owned and private enterprises for the production of glass, and Russian mothers are in serious competition with European ones.
Of course, Glass Worker Day then it was not celebrated, but our craftsmen did not begin to work less from this and completely mastered ancient art. The famous creators of the diamond pattern in the form of plants and a frosty pattern, the Zubanovs glorified the glasswork of Russia. And the city of Gus-Khrustalny becomes a symbol and pride of Russian crystal production.
Glass Worker Day in Russia
Today, this industry is developing rapidly. Various types of products are produced and mastered, the annual increase in own production is from 10 to 12%. According to experts, the domestic glass industry is developing successfully and is an important component of the country's economic potential. The day of the glass industry worker is celebrated at the enterprises with ceremonial events and concerts, it is celebrated by all people whose professions are somehow related to glass.
In St. Petersburg on November 19, an exhibition dedicated to the skill of glassblowers has been held for many years. People from different parts of the country come to see their wonderful work.
We know when Glass Industry Day celebrated in Russia, and from the bottom of our hearts we congratulate our contemporary masters on their professional holiday.