Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A charming two-piece pressed glass 'covered dish' featuring a reclining cat atop a rectangular base with a delicate openwork 'laced' or 'lattice' edge. This piece is crafted in 'Vaseline glass,' a specific type of canary-yellow glass that contains trace amounts of uranium dioxide.
Story
In the 1940s, these glowing felines were a staple of American parlors. The secret ingredient is uranium, which was restricted during WWII for the Manhattan Project, making pieces from this era a snapshot of atomic history.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1889, Westmoreland Glass was world-renowned for its high-quality milk glass and intricate patterns. They were masters of the 'covered animal dish' tradition, a whimsical Victorian trend they kept alive for nearly a century in their Pennsylvania factory.
Condition & Value
The glass appears vibrant with no visible chips to the delicate lace edge or the cat's ears, which are the most common points of damage. Any small 'flea bites' on the inner rim where the lid meets the base would reduce value by 15-20%. Vaseline glass remains highly collectible due to its UV-reactive properties.
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.