Identification

L.E. Smith Pink Depression-Era Glass 'Water Lily' (Lotus) Bowl and Sherbet/Dessert Set

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a vintage pressed glass berry/dessert and console set in the sculptural 'Water Lily' or lotus pattern, rendered in a delicate blush-pink tint.

Story

L. E. Smith Glass Company, established in 1907 in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, was a prolific American manufacturer famous for its colored Depression glass and mid-century pressed glass. The 'Water Lily' (or lotus) pattern is a classic 1930s-1940s sculptural motif that reflects the era's taste for elegant, nature-inspired dining accessories. The secondary market for Depression-era pink glass remains a steady staple of vintage resale, driven by collectors of 'cottagecore' and retro tablescapes.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

Based on standard vintage expectations, the value relies heavily on the structural integrity of the glass. The delicate, pointed petal rims are highly susceptible to 'flea bites' (tiny chips) and rough edges. Any cloudiness, utensil scratching in the bowls, or chips on the layered underplates will discount the value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for Depression-era pink glass remains a steady staple of vintage resale, driven by collectors of 'cottagecore' and retro tablescapes. While supply is relatively abundant keeping prices accessible, complete sets that include a master bowl move much faster than orphaned individual pieces. Buyers are primarily active on platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Mercari.

Value Drivers

▲ Inclusion of the large master centerpiece bowl alongside the individual dessert pieces

▲ Highly desirable blush-pink colorway, which trends well in current vintage decor markets

▲ Sculptural 'Water Lily' pattern offers stronger visual appeal than simpler, flat pressed glass

Concerns

▼ Unverified piece count — a set with fewer than 4 individual bowls will push the value toward the lower end of the range

▼ Unverified rim condition — hidden 'flea bites' or chips on the pointed petal rims severely impact collector value

Best Venue

List the set as a complete bundle on Etsy or eBay to capture the vintage home decor audience. A fast-sale price would be around $50, while a patient listing with excellent lighting—specifically photographing the pink glass against a crisp white background to highlight the tint—could justify an $85 to $100 asking price.

Upside Potential

If the set is confirmed to include 6 or more pristine individual dessert bowls with matching underplates alongside the master bowl, the value could push past $120 to a dedicated vintage glass buyer.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 1 comp

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Poshmark· 2026-07-05
    VTG 1960's L.E. Smith Pink Satin Glass Six Petal Vase/Candle Holder-4.75"H-EUC
    Different form (vase/candle holder instead of bowl/dessert set).
    $25