Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is the quintessential piece of 20th-century Americana: a Pyroceram glass-ceramic casserole dish featuring the iconic 'Blue Cornflower' pattern. Designed to withstand extreme temperature changes, it represents a revolutionary moment when space-age technology entered the domestic kitchen.
Story
Born from missile nose-cone research in the 1950s, this material survived a lab accident to become a kitchen icon. The 'Blue Cornflower' pattern was the first ever released, defining the look of the American home for decades.
Maker / Origin
Corning Glass Works chemist S. Donald Stookey accidentally discovered Pyroceram when a furnace malfunctioned, creating a white ceramic that wouldn't break even when dropped. This 'missile glass' was so durable it could go from a freezer directly onto a hot burner without shattering.
Condition & Value
The piece shows minor surface scuffing consistent with age. The blue floral transfer remains vibrant with no visible 'dishwasher haze' or significant chips on the handles. Condition is good for a daily-use vintage item. While millions were made, early 'P-series' marks in good condition are steady sellers.
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.