Gondola - Clear Stemware (Classic V-Bowl)
Decorative Art / Lead Crystal Glassware • Attributed to Mikasa (pattern: Gondola, Crystal Line)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Post-Modern Elegant Glassware
Medium & Technique
Pressed or mold-blown lead crystal with vertical panel cuts on the lower bowl and a multi-sided faceted stem.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (approximately 1980-1995)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8.5 to 9 inches in height; vertical orientation.
Subject Description
A set of tall-stemmed wine or specialty glasses featuring a trumpet-shaped V-bowl. The base of the bowl is decorated with vertical wedge cuts that catch light, transitioning into a slender, faceted, multi-tier stem and a flat circular foot.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the glass appears bright with high clarity and no visible clouding or significant chips in the provided image.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $60 USD for the set of four
Auction Estimate
$20 - $40 USD for the set of four
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a department store or bridal registry during the late 20th century; common in North American households during the 1980s.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 'Elegant Glassware' trend of the late 20th century where manufacturers like Mikasa, Gorham, and Waterford dominated the mass-market luxury tabletop industry with accessible lead crystal designs.
Notable Features
Distinctive tall, thin faceted stem and deep V-shaped bowl characteristic of the Gondola pattern, which was designed for high reflectivity and formal table settings.
Condition Issues
None visible in photograph; potential for micro-scratching on the foot and rim or 'flea bites' (tiny chips) on the faceted stem edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only in lukewarm water with mild detergent; avoid automatic dishwashers to prevent glass sickness (permanent clouding); store upright with space between rims.
Collector Notes
4 glasses