Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a classic piece of American custard glass, featuring a hand-painted floral motif known as 'Violets in the Snow' over a creamy, opaque body. The elegant bulbous base and flared neck represent the traditional mid-century aesthetic that made Fenton a household name in decorative glass.
Story
Fenton artists hand-painted these delicate violets during a 1970s revival of Victorian-style glass. Each piece was signed by the individual decorator, turning factory production into a personal gallery of Appalachian folk art.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1905, Fenton was the largest manufacturer of handmade colored glass in the United States. They were famous for their innovative chemistry, particularly their 'custard glass' which glows under UV light due to trace amounts of uranium.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks. The hand-painted floral details remain crisp and vibrant; well-preserved paint significantly maintains the item's market value. Value is driven by the popularity of the 'Violets in the Snow' pattern and the specific shape of the vase.
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.