Preliminary identification

Fostoria Glass Company 'American' Pattern Collection

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a substantial and beautifully curated collection of Fostoria Glass Company's iconic 'American' pattern (No. 2056), featuring its signature three-dimensional, prismatic cube design. The collection includes a diverse array of serving pieces, including pitchers, a covered butter dish, a footed punch bowl or cake stand, cruets, and various serving trays.

Story

In 1915, West Virginia glassmakers captured lightning in a bottle with a geometric, cube-like design that seemed to dance in the light. This 'American' pattern became the ultimate symbol of hospitality, gracing wedding registries and holiday tables for over seventy years.

Maker / Origin

Founded in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1887, the Fostoria Glass Company quickly relocated to Moundsville, West Virginia, to take advantage of abundant natural gas resources. Fostoria became synonymous with high-quality, elegant pressware and hand-blown stemware, earning a reputation as one of the premier 'Elegant Glass' manufacturers of the 20th century.

Condition & Value

The glassware appears bright, clear, and free of obvious cloudiness or 'sick glass' syndrome from dishwasher damage. Because of the sharp, raised geometric design of the 'American' pattern, it is highly prone to tiny fleabites and chips along the edges of the cubes; a physical inspection is required to ensure the edges are smooth.

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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.