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Preliminary identification

Fenton Art Glass Marigold Carnival Glass 'Swan' Ruffled Bowl

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic example of American Carnival Glass featuring a central embossed swan motif surrounded by floral and leaf patterns.

Story

In 1908, the Fenton brothers introduced a revolutionary glass finish called 'Iridill,' which we now know as Carnival Glass. It was designed to bring the shimmering, high-art aesthetic of expensive Tiffany glass into the homes of the working class.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1905 by Frank and John Fenton, the Fenton Art Glass Company became the most prolific manufacturer of handmade colored glass in the United States.

Condition & Value

The bowl appears to be in excellent condition with a very strong 'radium' (high-shine) finish. There are no visible chips on the delicate ruffled edges or the base ring, which are the most common areas for damage.

Full Research

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD