Preliminary identification

Hand-Blown Glass Pedestal Apothecary Jar, c. 1960s-1980s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a 'bonbonniere' or decorative apothecary jar, characterized by its elegant, elongated stem and organic, bulbous bowl. It represents a mid-century fascination with elevating everyday storage into sculptural art for the home.

Story

The apothecary jar began its life in the 18th century as a strictly functional vessel for chemists to store herbs and powders, but by the mid-20th century, it had been completely reimagined as a height-defying piece of decor.

Maker / Origin

While this piece lacks a visible signature, it follows the high-quality tradition of glass houses in Krosno, Poland, or the Murano islands of Venice.

Condition & Value

The glass appears remarkably clear with no visible 'clouding' or mineral deposits. The lid and finial seem intact; however, the thinness of the stem makes it vulnerable to stress fractures. The presence of the original lid significantly preserves its value.

Full Research

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

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD