Preliminary identification

Northwood 'Roulette' Opalescent Glass Ruffled Bowl, c.1906

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a beautiful Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG) ruffled bowl in the 'Roulette' pattern, featuring a delicate lime green tinge and a milky opalescent rim. Produced by the legendary Northwood Glass Company, the design showcases intricate beaded arches and fan-like motifs radiating from a central starburst. The dramatic, hand-crimped ruffled edge makes each individual piece from this run entirely unique.

Story

In 1906, West Virginia glassmakers used bone ash and heat to turn clear glass milky white at the edges. This 'Roulette' bowl captured the era's obsession with opalescence, bringing affordable luxury to turn-of-the-century tables.

Maker / Origin

Founded by English immigrant Harry Northwood in 1896, the Northwood Glass Company became one of the most famous names in American decorative glass. Harry brought secret English glassmaking formulas to America, pioneering spectacular iridescent 'Carnival' glass and exquisite opalescent patterns. His eye for dramatic, organic shapes helped define the aesthetic of the American table for a generation.

Condition & Value

The bowl appears to be in very good vintage condition with no obvious chips, cracks, or major bruising to the delicate ruffled edges. There is minor shelf wear on the bottom ring, which is expected for a piece of this age. Excellent condition preserves the maximum value.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.