Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a pressed glass fairy lamp shade in the iconic 'English Hobnail' pattern, featuring a cross-hatched texture and stylized floral medallions. While it looks like a small vase, it was designed to sit atop a matching glass base to diffuse the soft glow of a candle.
Story
Victorian 'fairy lamps' were the nightlights of the 19th century, originally used to light nurseries and hallways. Westmoreland revived this cozy tradition in the mid-1900s, turning functional lighting into a collectible art form.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1889, Westmoreland Glass was a titan of the Pennsylvania glass industry, famous for their high-quality milk glass and intricate patterns. They survived the Depression by focusing on decorative giftware that felt like a luxury but was accessible to the average American home.
Condition & Value
The glass appears clear with no visible 'sick' clouding or major chips in the pattern. The top rim looks smooth, which is vital for value. Excellent condition for a replacement shade. Value depends heavily on whether the matching base is present; as a standalone shade, it is a replacement part.
Full Research
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.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.