UWZM Blaschka Glass Models

Introduction

In the mid-to-late 1800’s, German father and son duo Leopold and Rudolph Blaschka constructed hundreds of glass marine invertebrate models to be used as teaching models in universities worldwide.  The Blaschkas were known for being extremely dedicated to their work, often working 16-hour days with instructions to leave their meals on a tray outside their door to prevent disruption.

In 2014, the UW Zoological Museum received a project grant from the Brittingham Foundation to recreate Blaschka marine invertebrate models with historically relevant materials and equipment to Leopold and Rudolph.

Since this original endeavor, the project has grown to encompass other avenues of documentation, construction, and educational materials related to the immense body of work of the Blaschkas. This work has primarily been done through invitation of professionals in their respective fields to dedicate their time and expertise to these models.

Over the past 12 years, four glassblowers, with over 100 years of combined experience, have been involved in this work, learning about the extreme technical skill and daunting challenges of recreating these models.

There is a tendency to view the work of 19^th century scientists as “primitive” or even “backward”, but this project has taught us that we should have a profound sense of awe and respect for the work that was done by these men, and that there is a lot that can be learned by looking to the work of those from the past.