Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Modern Textured Metallic Glass Charger, c.1960s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a striking example of 'burlap' or 'linen' glass, a technique where a metallic luster is applied to a deeply textured glass surface to mimic the look of woven fabric.

Story

Post-war American designers in the 1950s were obsessed with finding ways to make industrial materials feel organic and luxurious. This piece was born from that desire, using a 'slumped glass' process to turn a cold, hard surface into something that looks like…

Maker / Origin

While this piece appears unsigned, it is heavily consistent with the work of Dorothy Thorpe, the 'Queen of Glass.'

Condition & Value

The metallic finish appears remarkably intact in the photos, with no obvious 'flea bites' or chips along the rim. The preservation of the luster is excellent, as these pieces are often prone to scratching if stacked improperly. Excellent condition like this ensures the piece retains its intended shimmer.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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.

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