AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a vintage footed tumbler, likely a parfait or tall juice glass, crafted from thin-walled, clear colorless glass. The item features a flared rim that tapers slightly toward a short, waisted stem and terminates in a flat, circular disc base. The primary decorative element is a wheel-etched or gray-cut pattern encircling the upper third of the vessel. The motif consists of stylized floral and foliate designs, specifically arranged in a repeating 'bow' or 'wheat' cluster pattern with delicate leaf sprays extending horizontally. The glass exhibits high clarity and a brilliant surface, characteristic of mid-20th-century American manufacture, likely from the Depression era or early post-war period (circa 1930s-1950s). The craftsmanship displays precision in the etching, which shows varying depths and consistent spacing. In terms of condition, the glass appears structurally sound with no visible chips, cracks, or significant clouding ('sick glass') from dishwasher use. There are minor surface scratches consistent with age and stacking, particularly on the base. No visible maker's marks or signatures are apparent, which is common for glassware of this type from manufacturers like Fostoria, Heisey, or Tiffin.

I have conducted a visual examination of this clear etched crystal footed glass. Based on the flared profile and the specific 'bow and wheat' foliate etching, this piece is consistent with mid-century American elegant glass production, likely produced by a firm such as Tiffin or Fostoria circa 1935-1950. The condition appears excellent with no evidence of calcium deposits or 'clouding,' which often plagues vintage stemware. The lack of chips on the rim and base suggests gentle use, though minor shelf wear on the foot is noted. The market for single pieces of mid-century stemware is currently soft, as buyers typically seek full sets; however, individual replacements maintain value for collectors finishing a service. Comparable sales of similar needle-etched parfait glasses generally fall within the $15-$25 range. Authenticity is supported by the quality of the wheel-cut decoration, though I must note that photographs cannot confirm the 'ring' or acoustic resonance associated with high-lead crystal versus soda-lime glass. A physical inspection would be required to verify the presence of an acid-etched maker's mark, which can be nearly invisible to the naked eye, and to check for micro-flea bites along the rim. Full authentication would also benefit from a UV light test to check for fluorescence (manganese or uranium), which helps pinpoint the specific decade of manufacture. Provenance, such as original boxing or receipts, would clarify the specific manufacturer in the absence of a mark.