The Corning Museum of Glass

Established in 1951 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Corning Company, the Corning Museum of Glass rapidly became the largest museum in the world devoted to the subject. The collections, approximately 50,000 objects representing more than 3,500 years, span the history of glass from the earliest time to the present. The Corning, New York, facility is far more than just a collection of objects: It includes the world’s largest library on the subject and is a center for scholarship, teaching, and innovation.

In a richly illustrated program, Bill Keene examines the development and evolution of the museum, its collections, library, Innovation Center, and other aspects of this world-class resource. He highlights stunning historic works from ancient Rome, Islamic traditions, the Renaissance, Venice, later European examples, and America, as well as  developments such as the 20th-century studio glass movement and directions in contemporary glass. Whether the museum is already one of your favorites or you’re looking forward to your first visit, this virtual overview is perfect for lovers of glass and its history.

Patron Information

• If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
• Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
• Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
• Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
• View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.