Engraving and grinding

Text Randi Gaustad

It is often the engraving on a glass that indicates whether it is Norwegian or not, in that it alludes to Norwegian conditions, has inscriptions in Norwegian-Danish or that the style is recognisable.

The engraving takes place on an engraving chair; a small copper pulley or wheel was attached in a horizontal position to a spindle, driven by a pedal-driven wheel, on which the engraver steps. He presses the glass against the copper wheel, while at the same time turning and turning the glass to create the lines he wants.

When grinding glass, wide copper wheels are used and images are not created on the glass, but facets. Both engraving and grinding could also be done with wheels driven by water power.