Stirrup Dish – Iridescent Gold Art Glass with Applied Blue Mica Paint 7.5″

This bowl is part of our Stirrup Collection of equestrian art glass home decor. It is 7.75″ x 7.75″.

This distinctive piece is perfect for equestrian enthusiasts and those who appreciate fine artisanal craftsmanship, making it a standout addition for your home or a thoughtful gift for horse-loving friends.

Creating the dish was a 6-step process.
Glass Selection: First two pieces of glass were cut to the dimensions of the finished piece, one iridescent gold and the other clear.
Creating the Design: The stirrup pattern was created using a process called “powder printing”. Finely ground clear glass (known as powder frit) was sifted onto the iridized coating of the gold glass using a stencil created on my laser cutter. After carefully lifting the stencil and removing stray glass powder, the gold glass was placed on top of the clear.
First Firing: The two layers were placed in a kiln and heated to 1475 degrees, the temperature at which glass melts and the layers fused together.
Applying Surface Decoration: After firing, the stirrups were shiny and the gold glass had a matte finish. To create more contrast, blue mica paint was brushed onto all the background areas.
Second Firing: To set the paint, the piece was fired again. At 1350 degrees the paint permanently bonded with the glass.
Shaping the Dish: At this point the piece was still flat. To make it into a dish it needed one more firing. It went back into the kiln, this time on top of a mold, and was heated to 1250 degrees. At this temperature the glass softened and gravity caused it to sink into the mold and assume its final shape.