Ocean Liner Dish Appraisal

Vallerysthal Milk Glass Ocean Liner Covered Dish

This item is a vintage white milk glass covered dish meticulously modeled in the shape of a steamship or ocean liner. The piece exhibits an opalescent or 'fiery' quality typical of high-quality French pressed glass. It features complex molded details, including two prominent smokestacks (funnels), a tiered deck structure, lifeboats along the sides, and porthole indentations. The base of the dish forms the hull of the ship, while the lid comprises the upper decks and superstructure. The construction shows the heavy, opaque pressed glass style popular in the late 19th to early 20th century, likely produced by the French glassmaker Vallerysthal circa 1890-1910. The condition appears fair to good for its age, though visible yellowing or surface grime is present near the mid-section, suggesting a need for gentle cleaning. There are no immediate signs of large chips or cracks visible from this angle, though milk glass of this era often exhibits minor mold roughness or tiny 'flea bites' along the inner rims where the lid meets the base. The craftsmanship reflects the Victorian era's penchant for whimsical, figural tableware and remains a highly sought-after collectible for glass enthusiasts.