Preliminary identification

Silver Overlay Glass Footed Bowl, likely Silver City Glass Co.

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A stunning three-footed glass console bowl featuring an intricate floral silver overlay and a scalloped rim. The glass blank appears to be the 'Coronation' or 'Shell' pattern, characterized by its elegant radiating ribs and fluid, organic form.

Story

Post-war American homes craved a touch of luxury without the cost of solid sterling. Companies like Silver City perfected an electroplating process that fused 99.9% pure silver directly onto glass, creating these shimmering centerpieces.

Maker / Origin

The Silver City Glass Company of Meriden, Connecticut, was a leader in this specialized craft. They didn't make the glass themselves; instead, they purchased high-quality 'blanks' from famous glassworks like Fenton or Fostoria and applied their signature silver designs.

Condition & Value

The silver appears remarkably intact with minimal wear to the delicate leaf veins. There is some light surface grime, but no visible chips to the glass feet or scalloped rim. Excellent preservation of the silver increases its shelf appeal. Value is driven by the integrity of the silver overlay and the absence of glass chips.

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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.