Overview
A commemorative small plate or trinket dish featuring a delicate openwork filigree border and wheel-engraved glass center. It bears the inscription 'World's Fair 1893' alongside a classical laurel wreath motif.
Preliminary identification
1893 Chicago World's Fair Souvenir Plate
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
In 1893, 27 million people descended on Chicago's 'White City' to witness the future. This plate was a tangible piece of that magic, likely purchased as a high-end souvenir of the greatest spectacle on Earth.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is unmarked, these were often produced by glass houses like Libbey Glass Co., which had a massive working factory on the fairgrounds. Libbey's presence at the fair revolutionized American glass-making.
Condition & Value
The metal filigree appears remarkably intact without obvious breaks. The engraving on the glass shows some age-appropriate softening but remains legible. Excellent preservation for its age. Values for 1893 souvenirs vary by material; glass and metal filigree examples typically sell in this range.
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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 compsRegional 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.