Preliminary identification

Fire-King Milk Glass Chili Bowl with Tab Handle

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic piece of American kitchenware, this milk glass bowl features the iconic 'lug' or tab handle designed for easy carrying of hot soups and stews. The luminous, opaque white glass is a hallmark of the Fire-King line, which became a staple of the mid-century American home.

Story

Post-war American families reached for these bowls as symbols of modern durability. Originally sold in hardware and grocery stores, they turned everyday chili nights into a stylish, heat-resistant affair. This specific mark was used during the brand's golden age.

Maker / Origin

Anchor Hocking introduced the Fire-King line in 1942 to compete with Pyrex, marketing it as 'glass you can bake in.' They became the masters of 'oven-proof' glassware, creating affordable, beautiful pieces that could withstand the thermal shock of a busy 1950s kitchen.

Condition & Value

The glass appears bright with a good luster and no visible 'dishwasher haze' (cloudiness). The backstamp is crisp and legible, which is a plus for collectors. Excellent condition maintains the higher end of the value range.

Full Research

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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.