Preliminary identification

Rex Glass Ruby Red Votive or Juice Glass, c. 1940s-1950s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking deep ruby red glass vessel featuring a thick, weighted base and a bold 'REX' embossed maker's mark on the underside. This specific shade of red, often called 'Royal Ruby,' was achieved through the addition of copper or gold salts to the molten glass batch.

Story

During the mid-century, Rex Glass produced these durable, vibrant pieces for both American homes and commercial restaurants. Their intense color was designed to glow brilliantly under candlelight or incandescent bulbs, bringing a splash of luxury to the everyday table.

Maker / Origin

The Rex Glass Company was one of several American glass houses that flourished in the mid-20th century, specializing in 'Depression-style' and utilitarian glassware. While less famous than giants like Anchor Hocking, Rex is known among collectors for its heavy, substantial feel and deep, consistent color saturation.

Condition & Value

The glass appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips or 'flea bites' on the rim. The base shows minimal shelf wear, which is impressive for utilitarian glass of this age. Excellent condition for a set of 10 significantly boosts the total value.

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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
$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.