Preliminary identification

Marquis by Waterford Crystal Three-Piece Nativity Set

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A beautifully sculpted three-piece crystal nativity set featuring the Holy Family: Mary, Joseph, and the Infant Jesus in a manger. This set belongs to the Marquis line by Waterford, designed to offer the brand's signature brilliance in a contemporary, accessible format.

Story

In 1991, Waterford launched the Marquis line to capture a new generation of collectors. This nativity set translates the ancient, sacred story of the first Christmas into the modern language of light and pure, sculpted crystal.

Maker / Origin

Waterford was founded in Ireland in 1783 by brothers George and William Penrose, who sought to create the finest quality crystal in the world. The Marquis line, introduced in the late 20th century, maintained the parent company's strict standards of design while utilizing modern manufacturing facilities across Europe to create more diverse, lifestyle-oriented pieces.

Condition & Value

The figures appear to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, flea bites, or clouding. The original green flocked presentation box insert shows minor wear but remains structurally sound, which helps preserve the secondary market value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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.

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
$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.