Preliminary identification

Waterford Crystal 'Killeen' Oval Vase

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A beautiful, heavy lead crystal vase featuring deep vertical wedge cuts that catch and refract light brilliantly. This piece retains its original green and gold seahorse paper label, indicating its manufacture in Ireland, and comes complete with its original presentation box and care booklet.

Story

Founded in 1783 in the Irish harbor town of Waterford, this legendary maker survived closures and wars to become the global standard for luxury glass. The seahorse logo on the label was chosen as a symbol of the maritime heritage of the historic port town.

Maker / Origin

Waterford Crystal was established by brothers George and William Penrose, who aimed to produce the finest quality crystal in the world. Their secret formula produced a glass of unparalleled clarity and ring, which quickly found its way into royal palaces and prestigious homes across Europe and America.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or cloudiness. The original paper label is intact, and the box shows only minor shelf wear. Pristine condition with original packaging commands a premium.

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.