Preliminary identification

Tiffin Glass 'Kings Crown' Style Ruby Red Footed Apothecary Jar

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A striking example of American elegant glass featuring a deep ruby red 'cranberry' bowl and lid set atop a clear, twisted-loop pedestal stem. This style of lidded compote or apothecary jar was a staple of mid-century formal entertaining, designed to catch the light on a sideboard or holiday table.

Story

During the mid-1900s, Tiffin was the 'Tiffany' of Ohio glassmakers. This specific ruby hue was achieved by adding real gold to the molten glass mixture. It turned a simple candy dish into a glowing centerpiece for post-war American homes.

Maker / Origin

The Tiffin Glass Company was renowned for its high-quality 'Elegant' glass, which differed from mass-produced 'Depression' glass by being hand-finished and fire-polished. They were a primary supplier for high-end department stores and even provided glassware for the White House during several administrations.

Condition & Value

The glass appears vibrant with no visible clouding or 'sick glass' syndrome. The lid finial and the delicate loop stem seem intact, which is critical as these are the most common points of breakage. Excellent clarity in the clear base adds to the value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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 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.