The name "Tyrian" was selected because the color suggested to Carder the imperial purple fabrics of ancient Tyre. The shading was developed by having the gaffer reheat the piece several times in the glory hole. Longer heating sessions resulted in deep purplish colors. Because of this lengthy process, Tyrian was not just difficult to produce, but also an unstable, easily broken glass. It was therefore in production for a very short period of time. It is not possible to give precise dates of the production of the few Tyrian pieces; the experts give a range of 1916-1921, but these are only estimates. This is probably another reason why it is rare today, and it may have contributed to the short manufacturing period of the glass.
*Image: Tyrian Vase. Frederick Carder/Steuben Glass, Inc. About 1916. Corning Museum of Glass. 2011.4.83.
