Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A hand-blown studio glass goblet featuring a deep amethyst bowl with swirling, nebulous inclusions characteristic of Simpson's early cosmic explorations. The piece is signed 'Simpson' and dated '1978' on the underside of the foot in a distinctive vibro-etched script.
Story
In 1978, Josh Simpson was perfecting the 'Inhabited' style that would eventually lead to his famous glass planets. This goblet captures a miniature galaxy within a functional form, made just as the American Studio Glass movement exploded.
Maker / Origin
Josh Simpson is a world-renowned glass artist famous for his 'Planets'—intricate spheres that contain entire underwater or cosmic landscapes. A self-taught chemist and artist, he began his career in the early 1970s and is now represented in the permanent collection of the Corning Museum of Glass and the Smithsonian.
Condition & Value
The glass appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips or 'sickness' (clouding). The signature on the goblet's foot is crisp and legible, which is vital for maintaining its value as an early studio piece. Early dated works from the 1970s are highly collectible.
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.