Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Black Amethyst Glass Scalloped Console Bowl

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a striking mid-century console bowl crafted from deep black amethyst glass, featuring a beautifully lobed, scalloped rim and a raised pedestal foot. While it appears solid black at first glance, holding this piece up to a strong light source reveals its secret: a rich, glowing plum-purple hue hidden within the dense glass formula.

Story

During the mid-20th century, American glassmakers perfected a dramatic dark glass formula that looked jet black but glowed deep purple under bright light. These moody, sophisticated pieces became the ultimate centerpieces for stylish post-war dining tables.

Maker / Origin

Prominent American glass houses like L.E. Smith, Westmoreland, and Fenton popularized black amethyst glass during the mid-century era. These factories competed to create the most lustrous, deep-toned formulas, turning everyday tableware into dramatic, sculptural art glass.

Condition & Value

The bowl shows light surface scratching and minor scuffing consistent with age and use, particularly along the rim and interior. There are no major chips or cracks visible. Excellent condition generally commands the higher end of the value range. Value is driven by the popularity of mid-century glass and the appealing scalloped form.

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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.