In 1843, Henry Bessemer conducted early experiments with float glass, pouring molten glass onto liquid tin to create flatter surfaces. This innovative technique revolutionized glass production, allowing for the creation of high-quality, smooth glass sheets. Bessemer's work laid the foundation for modern glass manufacturing processes, influencing architecture and design. The advancements in glass technology had a profound impact on various industries, including construction and optics.

Early float glass experiments by Bessemer in 1843 prefigured the modernist fascination with perfect surfaces and reflections. This innovation inspired poets like T. S. Eliot, who explored themes of clarity and distortion in perception, mirroring the complexities of modern life.