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About Critical Glass
Critical Glass is the result of 15 years of experience in the Cut Glass fraternity. With our exceptional ability to find undiscovered pieces and the strength of our relationships with collectors, Critical Glass can pass along a wealth of savings and knowledge to its clients. Moving beyond the limitations of discovering and sharing glass through online auctions, Critical Glass aims to reach a broader audience of admirers of the American Brilliant Period. Whether you are just beginning your Brilliant Period glass journey, or are a seasoned collector, we hope you will find a beautiful piece from our collection to add to yours.
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About the Dealer
Starting at the mere age of 13, Ryan Fleisher has been studying glass since middle school, a hobby he initially picked up vicariously through his father (another collector who started at age 13). Ryan immediately developed the highly coveted talent of identifying pieces by mentally breaking apart patterns. It was only natural that Ryan became involved in the ACGA and began attending national conventions. At 17, he swept all three portions of the Walk of Challenges competition during the ACGA’s 2000 Costa Mesa convention, his first year in attendance. After senior ACGA members, including the late Leigh Emmerson and Sam Story, gained word of Ryan’s advanced glass identification abilities, he was taken under their wings and has been accumulating knowledge ever since.
Unfortunately, Ryan quickly realized that his collection was growing disproportionately to his allowance earnings. He soon found that he could easily fuel his newfound passion by selling glass as well. Through dealing in glass, Ryan carefully honed his craft by developing an eye for the unrecognized and hidden jewels. Over the years, he has built lasting relationships with his clients who seek his advice and council when making appraisals, purchasing, and selling decisions. Ryan’s gift earned him a position as editor of the well-respected text, Identifying American Brilliant Cut Glass by Bill and Louise Boggess. He has served on the Pattern Identification committee for nearly 10 years and the Anderson Study Group.
Ryan is a member of the ACGA and subscribes to their Code of Ethics.