Thursday, March 20, 2014

A Thursday Show and Tell with Goofus Glass

 
The seven point star magnifier and paperweight has been part of my writing desk for many years. As so often when I write a post, I learn much more about the subject, while writing.
 
So, today I learned this is called Goofus Glass, produced in the US during the early 1900's.
 
Much to my surprise, my dining table floral bouquet is reflected in the paperweight.
 

Goofus Glass is not a type of glass, but named as such because of the cold, unfired paint used on each piece. They were usually given as a premium for buying things or as prizes at fairs.
 
Do you have any Goofus Glass?
 
 
 A heptagram, septagram or septeram is a seven-pointed star drawn with
seven straight strokes.
 
According to Wikipedia, "The heptagram was used in Christianity to symbolize the seven days of creation and became a traditional symbol for warding off evil".
 
Click HERE to read more about seven point stars.
 
 
Beside the fact that it is an interesting piece, it really does work as a magnifier.
 
Meggie Mac
 

11 comments:

  1. No, I don't think I do have anything like that. But it sure is pretty! I love star shaped things.

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    1. I've had this piece for a long time, but, until I wrote the post, I had no idea it was called "Goofus Glass". Although it is 100 years old, it is in remarkable good shape.

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  2. I love this remarkable star !!
    What a treasure.
    Rose

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    1. I think I appreciate it more since I have written this post.

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  3. Never seen anything like it, but it's gorgeous!
    Jane x

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    1. Thanks...it did photograph beautifully. And now I know what Goofus Glass is....

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  4. I have never heard of Goodfus glass, thanks for the lesson..the star is very pretty. Are the star points painted or are they embossed.? I really like it..

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    1. The star points are painted....some of the paint has been worn off. After all, it is 100 years old. I'm glad you like it. I also forgot to say it is very heavy.

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  5. Hei Meggie! What a lovely piece of art you have! I tried to google, too what it is in Finnish but didn't quite succeed. Is it like faceted glass? In Finland that is called the poor man's chrystal. Have to find out more! Take care!

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  6. I've never heard of that Meggie.It is a beautiful piece though.

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