The secret history of Art Deco glass

Pigmented structural glass was a high-strength, opaque material developed in 1900 as a substitute for marble.

Its brilliant, reflective surface made it the perfect material for the sleek, futuristic look of Art Deco.

These glass slabs were commonly used to modernize storefronts, cinema fronts, and even gas stations.

The glass was so durable it was often stronger than marble and impervious to moisture and bacteria.

Today, surviving examples are rare, but you can still find original pieces through specialist glass shops.