Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A wonderfully whimsical, heavy hand-blown clear glass cowboy hat sculpture designed to double as a vase or ice bucket. This piece features the iconic hand-shaped upturned brim and creased crown, complete with its original silver and orange 'Blenko Handmade' foil label.
Story
Introduced in 1994, this design captures the playful spirit of West Virginia glassmakers paying homage to American Western culture. Each hat was individually hand-shaped while the glass was still red-hot, making every single brim curve unique.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1893 by William J. Blenko, this family-owned West Virginia institution became famous for its vibrant colors and bold, mid-century modern designs. Blenko's design directors, including Winslow Anderson, Wayne Husted, and Joel Philip Myers, redefined American art glass by marrying traditional European techniques with modern, sculptural forms.
Condition & Value
The glass appears bright and clear with no visible cloudiness, sickness, or major scratching. The original foil label is intact and in excellent condition with only minor edge wear. The bottom shows expected light shelf wear consistent with age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.