Overview
A striking footed glass compote featuring a distinctive looped 'lace' or 'crochet' rim and intricate floral silver overlay. The silver is applied through an electroplating process that fuses the metal directly to the glass surface.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking footed glass compote featuring a distinctive looped 'lace' or 'crochet' rim and intricate floral silver overlay. The silver is applied through an electroplating process that fuses the metal directly to the glass surface.
Story
Meriden, Connecticut was once the 'Silver City' of the world, where artisans perfected the alchemy of bonding precious metals to delicate glass. This piece was designed to catch the candlelight of a formal American dinner table.
Maker / Origin
Companies like Silver City and Rockwell specialized in 'Silver City' glass, often using blanks from major glassworks like Tiffin or Fenton. They were famous for their 'Sterling on Crystal' lines which became quintessential wedding gifts for mid-century brides.
Condition & Value
The silver appears largely intact but shows typical oxidation (tarnishing) which can be carefully polished. No major chips are visible on the delicate looped rim, which is the most common area for damage. Condition is good for its age. Value is driven by the integrity of the silver overlay and the rarity of the 'lace' rim.
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.