Davidson glass brings together British manufacturing history, decorative colour and practical design. Its output includes Victorian pressed glass, opalescent Pearline and the swirling cloud glass associated with interwar interiors. Understanding the different ranges—and the evidence behind an attribution—helps collectors make informed choices.
A brief history of Davidson glass
George Davidson established the Teams Flint Glass Works in Gateshead, north-east England, in 1867. The business became known as George Davidson & Co. and developed a substantial range of pressed glass for the home.
Davidson introduced its Cloud Glass range in 1923. Later ownership changes saw the works become Brama Teams Glassworks following the Abrahams takeover in 1966. The factory closed in 1987.
What is cloud glass?
Cloud glass has darker streaks and flowing swirls within a lighter glass body. These patterns give the glass its distinctive clouded appearance, contrasting particularly well with structured, geometric forms.
Davidson is closely associated with cloud glass, but manufacturers including Sowerby and Walther & Söhne also produced examples. Green colouring or a marbled pattern alone does not identify the maker.
An attributed green column vase
The example illustrated here is an unmarked green cloud-glass vase with a flared mouth, panelled column body, raised lower band and broad circular foot.
The Collector catalogued it as an Art Deco Davidson green cloud-glass column vase. We retain the description “attributed to Davidson” because its manufacturer, exact pattern and production date have not been independently confirmed.
Its flowing green swirls and architectural form illustrate the visual qualities that attract collectors to this type of decorative glass.
Marks, labels and unmarked bases
Davidson identification varies between periods and ranges. Reference examples include a moulded lion trademark on Victorian glass, registration numbers on certain designs and surviving adhesive labels on later pieces. A mark associated with one period should not be expected on every Davidson object.
The base photograph accompanying this section shows the underside of our attributed vase. No maker’s mark has been identified. It records the foot shape, recessed centre and visible glass pattern for comparison; it does not establish Davidson manufacture.
When examining an unmarked piece, compare the complete object with documented examples and original catalogues. Check dimensions, rim profile, body panels, foot construction and moulded details together. A close resemblance supports further investigation, rather than automatically confirming a maker.
Collecting tips
Inspect rims, feet and projecting details for chips, and examine the glass for cracks, internal staining and possible alterations. Ask for clear photographs of the underside as well as the main display view.
When comparing prices, distinguish completed sales from asking prices and account for differences in size, colour, condition and included fittings.
Choose pieces whose design and colour you enjoy. A well-chosen vintage glass vase can bring character to an interior, make a thoughtful gift or become the starting point for a focused collection.
Further reading
Browse more Vintage Glass & Art Glass at TMC Emporium.
Explore the Davidson Glass Identification Guide at 20th Century Glass.