American Brilliant Period Cut Glass Open Sugar Bowl

This is a fine example of American Brilliant Period (ABP) cut glass, specifically an open sugar bowl featuring a classic double-handled design. The clear lead glass body is intricately decorated with a deep, hand-cut geometric pattern, prominently showcasing a large hobstar motif at the center, flanked by miter cuts and cross-hatched diamonds. The rim is elegantly finished with a scalloped, saw-tooth edge, while the two applied glass handles are curved and polished for a comfortable grip. Measuring approximately 3 to 4 inches in height, the piece exhibits the high refractive index and heavy weight characteristic of lead crystal from the late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1880-1915). Close inspection reveals high-quality craftsmanship with sharp, well-defined miters and a brilliant polish. There are no readily visible chips or cracks on the main body or handles, though minor 'flea bites' or shelf wear on the base and saw-tooth rim are common for glassware of this age. No specific maker's marks are immediately visible, but the pattern is indicative of major manufacturers of the era such as Libbey, Hawkes, or Dorflinger. The glass remains remarkably clear without significant clouding or 'sick glass' syndrome.

I have conducted a visual examination of this double-handled open sugar bowl, which displays the hallmark characteristics of the American Brilliant Period (circa 1880-1915). The piece exhibits a high lead content, evidenced by the sharpness of the miters and the clarity of the crystal. The 'Hobstar' motif, combined with cross-hatched diamonds and a saw-tooth rim, is executed with significant precision, suggesting a high-tier manufacturer like Libbey or Hawkes, though the absence of an acid stamp necessitates classifying this as 'Maker Anonymous.' The condition appears excellent for its age; while I note common 'flea bites' on the rim, the absence of major chips or clouding maintains its aesthetic value. The current market for ABP glass is highly selective. While utilitarian pieces like sugar bowls were produced in volume, the quality of this specific cutting elevates it above standard pressed glass imitations. Recent auction results for similar hand-cut bowls show steady demand among specialized collectors, though prices have stabilized compared to the market peaks of the 1990s. Limitation of Appraisal: This assessment is based on photographic evidence. A definitive authentication requires a physical 'ring test' to confirm lead resonance and a blacklight examination to observe the characteristic lime-green fluorescence of period glass. Verification of specific weight and the presence of faint, authentic shelf wear on the base would further distinguish this from contemporary reproductions. Provenance documentation or a confirmed matching pattern in an original manufacturer's catalog would be required to attribute this to a specific house and potentially increase its valuation.