Preliminary identification

Fenton Art Glass 'Cherry and Pear' Bowl in Marigold, c.1911

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a classic example of American Carnival glass, featuring a deeply embossed 'Cherry and Pear' fruit motif on the interior and a crisp basketweave pattern on the exterior.

Story

In 1907, the Fenton brothers launched a line of glass called 'Iridill,' hoping to capture the luxury market, but it was initially mocked as 'poor man's Tiffany.'

Maker / Origin

Fenton Art Glass was founded in 1905 and became the most famous name in American iridescent glass. They were pioneers in color chemistry, using secret formulas of metallic salts sprayed onto hot glass…

Condition & Value

The iridescence appears vibrant with minimal 'high point' wear on the fruit. The sawtooth edge is the most vulnerable part; any chips or 'flea bites' here would reduce the value by 30-40%. Based on the photos, the luster is well-preserved. Marigold is the most common color for this Fenton pattern.

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD