Blenko Tangerine Pumpkin
Decorative glass sculpture • Blenko Glass Company, Milton, West Virginia
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Art Glass traditions / Contemporary Americana
Medium & Technique
Hand-blown glass; moldblown body with an applied hand-tooled glass stem
Creation Period
Late 20th century to Early 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6-8 inches in diameter; Three-dimensional globular form
Subject Description
A stylized pumpkin sculpture featuring a vibrant translucent orange/tangerine body with a contrasting dark green twisted glass stem. The piece is part of the iconic seasonal production series by Blenko.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible sticker suggests limited handling, though some surface dust and minor shelf wear appear present.
Estimated Market Value
$60 - $125
Auction Estimate
$50 - $100
Provenance History
Commercial retail purchase; retains original oval silver and black 'Blenko Handcraft Made in USA' sticker indicating post-1980s manufacture.
Art Historical Significance
Blenko is one of the last original American hand-blown glass companies. Their seasonal pumpkins have become highly collectible staples of West Virginia glass heritage and the American studio glass movement's commercial reach.
Notable Features
Original 'Blenko Handcraft' oval label; distinctive pontil mark on base; vibrant 'Tangerine' color hue typical of Blenko's proprietary glass formulas.
Condition Issues
Surface dust; minor scratches on the base (expected shelf wear); a slight air bubble inclusion characteristic of hand-blown processes.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap and lukewarm water; avoid extreme temperature changes; display in stable lighting to emphasize translucency.