Mayhem
Well-Known Member
WOW! Collecting antiques in Southern California is both frustrating and rewarding. Frustrating in that very few real true antiques find their way out here. Rewarding in that the few antiques that do the owners don't know what they have. Here is an example I paid $5 for.
I recognized it as American pressed lacy glass circa 1820 to 1850 because of the crude sharp edges and the heavy weight. Lacy glass is 33% lead and if you hold it correctly and hit it rings like a bell. I was initially weary of the piece because of the color. American pressed glass of the later period 1850 -1910 is made with manganese instead of lead and will purple when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight). Also, I have never personally seen a piece of colored lacy glass and the only images of this piece I could find online are clear.
However, after close examination and research I am now convince it is real American pressed lacy glass circa 1820 to 1850 intentionally colored during manufacture. In the attached pictures note the swirls of color. Particularly around the "U.S.F." initials. In the picture taken outside against the sky the beige you see is my reflection.
If anyone out there has a differing opinion I would love to here it.
I recognized it as American pressed lacy glass circa 1820 to 1850 because of the crude sharp edges and the heavy weight. Lacy glass is 33% lead and if you hold it correctly and hit it rings like a bell. I was initially weary of the piece because of the color. American pressed glass of the later period 1850 -1910 is made with manganese instead of lead and will purple when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight). Also, I have never personally seen a piece of colored lacy glass and the only images of this piece I could find online are clear.
However, after close examination and research I am now convince it is real American pressed lacy glass circa 1820 to 1850 intentionally colored during manufacture. In the attached pictures note the swirls of color. Particularly around the "U.S.F." initials. In the picture taken outside against the sky the beige you see is my reflection.
If anyone out there has a differing opinion I would love to here it.
Attachments
Last edited: