Antique Imperial Glass Store Counter Canister

Marked "Imperial Cube" on top of the lid. Beautiful patter of cannon balls and pillars. Made by the Imperial Glass Company, est. circa 1930 or earlier. This item is shown in the 'Standard Encyclopedia of Pressed Glass', 5th Edition 1860-1930, page 320. The authors have no information other than an image and maker.  Has a manganese mineral content used in early glass.  Manganese causes glass to turn purple when exposed to sunlight.  This jar has just a hint of purple gained naturally over the years. Manganese glass will glow green or yellow when exposed to blacklight (see image #4).  This is not vaseline glass, vaseline glass has a core color of green/yellow.  This jar does not have a green or yellow tint. Appears to be a retail counter jar.  We've put large cigars inside, but unsure what the actual use was.  Measures 7" tall, 6.5" wide.  Large, heavy jar.  Heavy bottom wear from surface and base contact over the years.  In excellent condition. Click on images below to enlarge - use back arrow to return to this page