Preliminary identification

Waterford Crystal 'Lismore' Wine Stemware Set

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic set of cut crystal wine glasses featuring the iconic cross-hatch and vertical wedge cuts of the world-famous Lismore pattern. Supported by elegant, multi-faceted stems, these glasses represent the pinnacle of traditional Irish lead crystal craftsmanship.

Story

In 1952, designer Miroslav Havel drew inspiration from the gothic windows of Lismore Castle in County Waterford, Ireland. He created a pattern that would become the most popular crystal design in history, gracing tables of heads of state.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1783 by brothers George and William Penrose, Waterford Crystal set out to create the finest quality crystal for drinking vessels and home beauty. Despite closing for nearly a century due to heavy taxation, the brand was revived in 1947 by Czech immigrants who brought European glassmaking secrets back to Ireland.

Condition & Value

The glasses appear to be in excellent condition with no visible clouding, chips, or flea bites along the rims. Excellent condition is vital for crystal, as even minor chips to the rim or base can reduce the value of individual pieces by 50% or more.

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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.