Ancient Order of Druids Georgian Glass Tumbler c1820

Description

Heading : Engraved 19th century glas tumbler
Period : Regency 
Origin : England
Colour : Clear. good grey tone
Bowl : Conical – see explanation of engraving below
Pontil : Snapped 
Glass Type : Lead
Size :  11.1cm height. 9.2cm bowl. 5.8cm diameter foot 
Condition : Excellent. no chips or cracks 
Restoration : None 
Weight: 340 grams

Founded in 1781 the Ancient Order of Druids were part of an 18th and 19th century movement whereby a number of fraternal societies were set up across Britain in a movement known as neo-druidism. 

At the time Romanticism and the neo-celtic movement were beginning to influence British society. Both movements tried to change perceptions of pre-roman Britain. Druids had previously been perceived as savages conducting human sacrifices. the new perception displayed druids as naturalistically inclined wise old men. neither were faithful to the first hand evidences provided by Pliny. 

This glass is engraved with ” The Ancient Order Of Druids” and a series of quasi masonic symbols: Noah’s ark. heart in hand hand. dove and olive branch. scales. crossed swords and more. Bears the names of Wm (William) and Hannah Ridgway