Christmas at the National Glass Museum

Christmas at the National Glass Museum has become a much-loved tradition. This year, the silver glass – also known as ‘peasant silver’ or ‘poor man’s silver’ – takes centre stage. With its beautiful lustre, this antique decorative glassware brings a touch of nostalgia and, of course, plenty of Christmas spirit.

Silvered glass originated around 1825 in Bohemia. Initially, it was silvered in the same way as mirrors were made: using mercury; however, this was toxic, expensive and produced a distorted reflection. From around 1840, silvered glass began to be made using silver nitrate.

Silver glass is blown hollow; it can be single-walled, like a Christmas bauble, but most silver glass is double-walled with a small opening at the bottom. The silver solution is poured into the object through this opening, after which it is rotated so that the silver solution coats the entire interior. The excess silver nitrate is drained out and the opening is sealed to prevent fresh air from entering. Air may contain some sulphur, which causes the silver to discolour.

Silver glass is known in the Netherlands under the derogatory terms ‘peasant silver’ and ‘poor man’s silver’. It resembles precious silver and lends an air of opulence to the home, even though it is made of glass.

Many sacred figurines have been made, as well as candlesticks and goblets. The candlelight reflects off the silver, brightening the room and adding to the festive atmosphere at Christmas.

Christmas at the National Glass Museum – Silver glass on display from 21 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 in the museum café!