Milk Glass

White opaque glass, formulated with tin oxide or arsenic, and resembling milk, was first made in Venice. It was called ‘Lattimo’ in Italy, and was also known as ‘Milchglas’ in Germany, and ‘Blanc–de–Lait’ in France.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, it was much appreciated as an alternative to expensive porcelain. Pieces from this period were often treated accordingly, with enamel paint and gilding.

Milk glass became popular for moulded wares at the end of the 19th century, with British companies like Sowerby coining the name ‘Vitro-Porcelain’ for their opaque pressed glass ranges.

Popularity continued into the 20th century, with American companies like Fenton producing a broad range of wares.

Although the term ‘milk glass’ was originally only reserved for white, opaque glass items, the phrase is now used to encompass many shades of opaque glass.