Parrot (also known as Sylvan) Platter
Decorative art glass, oval serving platter • Federal Glass Company (Columbus, Ohio)
Style & Movement
Depression Glass / Late Art Deco
Medium & Technique
Pressed uranium glass (vaseline glass) featuring etched or mold-pressed needle-etched style decoration
Creation Period
circa 1932-1935
Dimensions & Format
Horizontal oval format; approximately 11 to 13 inches in length
Subject Description
The pattern features three parrots perched on bamboo stalks with tropical palm foliage. The composition is stylized and linear, typical of mass-produced glassware from the era, utilizing a tropical or 'exotic' motif popular in 1930s interior design.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the glass displays high transparency and a strong fluorescent response to UV light (blacklight) with no visible chips or significant scratching.
Estimated Market Value
$45 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a private collection of American Depression-era glassware; these pieces were often distributed as promotional giveaways or sold inexpensively at hardware and department stores.
Art Historical Significance
A quintessential example of American Depression glass, noteworthy for its use of uranium dioxide as a colorant, allowing it to glow under UV light. It represents the democratization of design during the Great Economic Depression, providing stylistic optimism to households through mass production.
Notable Features
Vibrant 'Vaseline Green' fluorescence under UV light; the specific 'Parrot' pattern by Federal Glass is highly sought after by collectors for its figural animal motif.
Condition Issues
Minor surface wear (flea bites) or utensil marks possible upon microscopic inspection, but none visible to the naked eye. No clouding (glass sickness) is observed.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap and lukewarm water; avoid dishwashers to prevent etching. Display under a 365nm UV light source to showcase its reactive properties.