Art Glass Sunflower Bowl with Iridescent Finish
Decorative art, pressed glass bowl • Likely American glass manufacturer (e.g., Fenton Art Glass Company, Imperial Glass, or Indiana Glass)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Decorative / Revival Carnival Glass
Medium & Technique
Marigold carnival glass; molded/pressed glass with an iridescent metallic salt coating
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940s-1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6-9 inches in diameter; circular floral format
Subject Description
A floral-themed bowl shaped like a sunflower or dahlia. The center features a textured, pebbled stippling to represent the disc florets of a flower, surrounded by flame-like petals that flare outwards to form the vessel's rim. The Marigold coloring provides a warm amber hue with a pearlescent, rainbow-like sheen.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the piece shows high luster with no visible chips, cracks, or significant surface wear to the iridescent coating.
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $60 USD
Auction Estimate
$15 - $45 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a mass-produced collectible from the mid-20th century, common in American domestic interiors.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratized luxury of 'Carnival Glass,' originally given as prizes and later sold as affordable decorative housewares. It reflects the American glass industry's ability to replicate the look of high-end Favrile glass for the middle-class market.
Notable Features
High-quality iridescence (oil-on-water effect) often referred to as 'Marigold.' The organic, jagged petal edges suggest a later 20th-century interpretation of classic Edwardian patterns.
Condition Issues
Minor potential for shelf wear on the base; otherwise, no identifiable damage or loss of iridescence.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or dishwashers which can strip the metallic salt coating. Display away from direct, harsh sunlight to prevent long-term thermal stress.