Cathedral Convex Glass #900D

We carry convex glass also known as bubble glass or domed glass in many antique sizes and shapes along with their modern equivalents. Although convex glass will fit frames we sell they are most commonly ordered with our Vintage Collection. 

Measuring Convex Glass

Like flat glass, convex bubble glass is measured length and width directly across the glass (not around the bend of the glass). Most of our convex glass has a depth of 3/4" to 1", but deeper bends are possible

Our most poputlar size we sell is the oval 13 1/2" x 19 5/8". Many people think these odd antique sizes are no longer available, but because of the high demand for these procucts we stock many of these unusual antique sizes with no custom set up fee required.. 

We currently stock over 50 standard sizes of convex glass and we also custom bend any size of convex bubble glass up to 22"x28". A paper tracing of the custom bend is required.  The glass will be cut to the line drawn on the paper template . To produce your custom size convex glass allow 3-4 weeks delivery after we receiving the tracing .

Uses of Convex Glass

Most bubble glass or convex glass is used to cover old antique portraits in which the photographs were convex. We sell convex glass replacements to fit actual antique frames, to replace broken pieces in clocks, gauges and other instruments, as well as to fit our own antique replica frames. 

The Process to Bending Glass

Flat glass is laid into frame molds.  The glass is then heated to temperatures that allow the glass to slump. Longer heat creates a deeper bend thus creating what is know as bubble glass or convex glass.  

It is also possible to have your modern prints made into a convex portrait Just as the antique replica frames and convex glass are available today, For information on having convex pictures created please visit the Brogan-Bowen Company.

History

Over half of the picture frames produced in America by some the largest picture frame factories in the late 1800's up to about 1940 were oval, round, or antique octagon.  Today less than 5% of all picture frames produced today, are oval.  A large number of these old frames were family portraits that were and then covered with convex glass. Many attics and basements are home to these family heirlooms framed in antique frames and often broken convex bubble glass.  We are able to bend convex glass, thus providing replacements for these images. 

Acrylic Domes or Deep Convex Glass?

Convex glass normally has a bend of about 3/4" to 1”. Items that have a depth more than a photo or canvas, you may consider  our acrylic domes which fit all our frames and range in depth from 2.5" up to 7".