Opalescent Vase Appraisal

Fenton Blue Opalescent 'Lily of the Valley' Pattern Basket Vase

This item is identified as a Fenton Blue Opalescent 'Lily of the Valley' Pattern Basket Vase. It is crafted from a beautiful, translucent light blue glass with opalescent white detailing that becomes more prominent towards the edges and raised elements of the design. The overall form is that of a shallow, open-top basket with a gracefully arched, clear glass handle attached to the rim. The body of the basket is square or rectangular with gently flaring, scalloped sides. The surface is heavily embossed with a 'Lily of the Valley' pattern, featuring delicate bell-shaped flowers and their leaves, which are rendered in relief and accentuated by the opalescent finish. The base appears to be a small, circular foot. The handle itself has a textured, possibly twisted or ribbed design, adding to its visual interest. The craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, typical of Fenton Art Glass, known for their pressed and blown glass items, often featuring intricate patterns and opalescent finishes. The item shows no obvious signs of significant damage such as chips, cracks, or repairs from the visible image, suggesting it is in good vintage condition. There might be minor manufacturing imperfections, such as mold lines or slight variations in glass thickness, which are common for pieces from this era. The presence of the opalescence and the specific 'Lily of the Valley' pattern strongly indicates its production by Fenton, likely dating from the mid-20th century, a period when such decorative glassware was very popular. The size, based on the visible ruler, indicates it is a medium-sized decorative piece, likely intended for display or holding small items.