American Brilliant Period Cut Glass Centerpiece Bowl on Silver-Plated Victorian Footed Base
Hollowware - Footed Centerpiece / Compote · Unknown American or Continental manufacturer for the base; glass likely by Fry, Libbey, or Hawkes. Victorian era silver plate manufacturers often outsourced glass components.
Pattern: American Brilliant Period (ABP) Geometric and Floral motif with Hobstar, Crosshatching, and Pinwheel cutting on glass; Rococo Revival scroll and shell on base.
Type
Hollowware - Footed Centerpiece / Compote
Maker
Unknown American or Continental manufacturer for the base; glass likely by Fry, Libbey, or Hawkes. Victorian era silver plate manufacturers often outsourced glass components.
Material
Lead crystal (glass) and Silver-plated white metal or brass (base). Note: The base shows significant oxidation/tarnish suggesting silver plate over a non-ferrous base metal.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in diameter, 9-11 inches in height. Heavy weight due to lead content in crystal and cast metal base.
Description
An impressive turn-of-the-century centerpiece featuring a deeply cut lead crystal bowl. The glass exhibits the characteristic 'fire' of the American Brilliant Period. It sits atop a heavily decorated, four-footed silver-plated base that provides a regal, antique silhouette.
Key Features
Intricate 'Hobstar' glass cutting; heavily tarnished Rococo base; hybrid construction of glass and silver-plate.
Material & Composition
Lead crystal (glass) and Silver-plated white metal or brass (base). Note: The base shows significant oxidation/tarnish suggesting silver plate over a non-ferrous base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Glass features deep mitre cuts, hobstars, and flashed fan shapes. Base features heavy Victorian repoussé-style scrolls, acanthus leaves, and four scroll feet (quadruple plate style).
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in image. Typical marks would be on the underside of the base, often including 'Quadruple Plate', a maker's logo, or a pattern number.
Construction Details
Hand-cut glass bowl attached to a cast metal base via a central threaded rod or metal collar. The base is die-struck or cast.
Functional Features
Wide-mouth bowl for fruit or floral display; elevated footed base to provide table height and prominence.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; the base serves as the grip. The ornate scroll feet provide stability.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality manual glass cutting evidenced by sharp mitres; the base is a standard high-quality Victorian commercial plating job.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of glass cuts (indicates hand-cut, not molded); patina on base consistent with aged silver plate; weight and clarity of crystal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (New England or Pennsylvania glass regions) or possibly European export (Germany/Bohemia metalwork).
Era & Period
Late Victorian / American Brilliant Period (circa 1880-1915). Characterized by high-lead glass and ornate silver plated accents.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910 based on the complexity of the glass cutting and the Rococo revival style of the metal foot.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gilded Age' aesthetic where middle and upper-class households displayed elaborate silver and glass as signs of hospitality and wealth.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Base shows heavy tarnish and possible loss of plating (appearing bronze-toned). Glass should be inspected for 'flea bites' or chips on the sharp edges.
Value Estimate
$150-$350 depending on glass manufacturer identification and condition of the silver plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean glass with warm soapy water and soft brush; do not put in dishwasher. Clean metal with non-abrasive silver cream; avoid getting polish on the glass.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. sterling-mounted bowls (higher value), Meriden Britannia plated compotes, or contemporary pressed glass reproductions (lower value/duller edges).
Interesting Facts
The American Brilliant Period (1876-1917) saw glass cutting become a major American art form, often paired with silver bases to enhance luxury appeal.