Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a substantial Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG) centerpiece bowl featuring swirling paisley teardrops enclosing brilliant starburst and hobnail motifs. Made at the turn of the twentieth century, it was designed to emulate high-end Brilliant Cut Glass for the burgeoning American middle-class parlor.
Story
Around 1905, American glassmakers used steel molds to mimic luxury cut crystal, creating dazzling parlor centerpieces that captured candlelight for middle-class homes.
Maker / Origin
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, firms concentrated in the Ohio River Valley—such as J.B. Higbee, McKee Glass Company, and Imperial Glass—competed fiercely to produce intricate pressed patterns. Mold carvers were master artisans who chiseled reverse designs directly into cast iron and steel blocks by hand.
Condition & Value
The owner reports one chip on the rim; mold seams and typical faint surface wear consistent with age and use. A rim chip reduces collectible value by about 30% to 50%. Pressed glass bowls of this era are widely collected but abundant. The presence of a rim chip reduces collector value into the lower-to-middle decorative range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.