Crystal Bird Trinket Dish (Byrdes Collection Style)
Decorative Glassware, Lidded Trinket Dish • Hofbauer Crystal (Byrdes Collection), West Germany
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Decorative Arts / Revival Pressed Glass
Medium & Technique
Lead crystal (24% PBO), press-molded with saw-tooth rim and frosted stylistic elements
Creation Period
Circa 1970s - 1990s
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 3 to 5 inches in height (including finial); circular format.
Subject Description
A small round trinket or candy dish featuring a domed lid topped with a sculptural bird finial. The vessel features deep diamond and sunburst geometric cuts, typical of the Hofbauer Byrdes pattern, which often features frosted bird motifs within panels or as finials.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible shelf wear on the base and possible minor flea bites along the serrated edges.
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD
Provenance History
Likely mass-produced in West Germany for the international export market; commonly sold in department stores and gift shops during the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the high-quality lead crystal production in West Germany during the Cold War era. Though mass-produced, the 'Byrdes' collection has become a staple of late 20th-century glassware collecting.
Notable Features
Featured sculptural bird finial on the lid and the characteristic high-refractive index of 24% lead crystal.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratching on bottom, potential chipping to the sharp points of the saw-tooth rim, and dust accumulation in the deep-cut patterns.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap and lukewarm water; avoid dishwasher use to prevent clouding or 'etching' of the lead crystal. Display away from direct sunlight to prevent heat stress.
Collector Notes
Possible Hofbauer