The Arts and Crafts movement, based on the writings of John Ruskin and William Morris, was more a way of thinking and making than a style. It flourished between 1880 and 1920 and was a reaction against mass-produced factory goods. The revival of handicrafts produced metalwork which emphasised the toolmarks and how it was constructed. Favourite motifs included hearts, fish, flowers, fruit, birds, galleons. W. A. S. Benson designed light-fittings for Morris & Co., made at his workshop in Hammersmith, and also had his own shop in Bond Street.

James Powell took over the Whitefriars Glass Works in London in 1834 and began a revival of handblown glass. Powells produced austerely elegant glasses for Arts & Crafts designer Philip Webb and opalescent shades for W.A.S.Benson's light fittings.

Fine semi-opaque, white and coloured glass, developed by the French in the first half of the 19th century, with a translucent quality.