unique and unusual c. 1880's antique american high victorian era lightly etched flash glass "ornamental panel designed and patented by chauncey d. pease of new york. the panel was intended for use with cabinetry, pianos and sidelights as a more reliable and cost-effective alternative to wood fretwork. the rich purple or amethyst-colored flash glass was achieved by etching with acid or by cutting and/or etching by means of sand-blast. the contrasting background color (i.e., frosted white glass) brings out the design in a very elegant manner. the patent date is lightly etched on the bottom side of the glass panel. whether or not the panels were produced on a larger scale by a manufacturer is not known. a total of three panels are available. each and every panel has been outfitted with a custom built varnished oak wood frame - the quartered oak was salvaged from the chicago athletic association building.