Preliminary identification

Victorian Hand-Painted Satin Glass Vase, c. 1890-1910

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic ovoid art glass vase featuring a velvety 'satin' finish and vibrant, hand-painted roses in varying stages of bloom.

Story

By the late 1880s, the 'Language of Flowers' had become a complex social code where every bloom carried a secret message; a red rose declared passion, while a pink one signified grace and joy.

Maker / Origin

While this piece is unsigned, it is consistent with the work of prestigious glass houses like Mt. Washington Glass Works in Massachusetts or the Smith Brothers, who were famous for their 'opal' and satin glass decorations.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in good antique condition with no visible cracks or large chips. There is some minor surface grime and potential light wear to the painted enamel on the most prominent rose petals, which is common for 'cold-painted' glass of this age. The rim appears smooth, though these are prone to tiny nicks.

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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