Scientific glassware is intrinsic equipment to the research laboratory, particularly chemistry and biology. It presents as fabricated equipment, yet the beauty of the pieces and the skill of their creation is more akin to works of craft. Elegant vitreous forms result from their functional requirements; parameters determined by aesthetic eye and fundamental rules of science.
The British Society of Scientific Glassblowers is the organisation in the UK founded in 1960 for the support and benefit of professionals engaged in scientific glassblowing. It extends to anyone with an interest in glassblowing as a craft. Despite its continuing importance, the profession is endangered. The number of expert glassblowers is decreasing and the development of skilled professionals relies upon an apprenticeship system, with approximately ten years of training.
Oxford University Chemistry Department’s scientific glassblower, Terri Adams, has been crafting bespoke glassware for many years. Working alongside researchers, with an understanding of their scientific requirements, she creates glass objects of beauty and functional precision.
An example of bespoke scientific glassware created by Terri Adams is shown here.
Image Copyright: Oxford University / Terri Adams
