AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a vintage pressed glass 'nappy' (a shallow open serving dish) featuring a distinctive integral loop finger handle. Produced by the Jefferson Glass Company around 1905, this piece exhibits the 'No. 271' pattern, characterized by an intricate combination of embossed floral, scroll, and geometric motifs. The dish is crafted from transparent light pink glass, likely a very faint rosy-tinted clear glass or manganese-doped glass that has turned slightly over time. It is embellished with polychrome cold-applied decorations, specifically vibrant red (cranberry-style) and gold flashing on the raised medallions and floral elements. The base of the bowl shows a complex pressed starburst or radial pattern typical of Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG). The finger loop is stout and seamlessly integrated into the rim, showcasing the high-quality molding process of the era. Measurement is approximately 5 to 6 inches in diameter excluding the handle. The condition appears fair to good for its age; while the structural integrity of the glass is sound with no visible cracks, there is significant thinning and loss of the gold and red flashed finish, particularly on the interior base and side medallions due to handling and age-related wear. Small flea bites or factory mold rough spots may be present along the scalloped edge. This piece is a collectible example of Victorian-era table service aesthetics.

Based on my visual examination of the provided images, this item is an authentic Antique Glassware finger nappy produced by the Jefferson Glass Company, circa 1905. The piece features the distinct 'No. 271' pattern, identifiable by its intricate embossed scrolls and floral medallions. The mold work remains crisp, showcasing the quality typical of Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG) from this era. The primary factor influencing value here is condition. While the structural integrity appears sound—I see no major chips, cracks, or repairs in the photographs—the decorative finish has suffered significantly. The gold and red flashing, originally applied cold over the pressed glass, shows substantial wear, particularly in the central basin and high-relief areas. This level of finish loss is common for utilitarian pieces of this age but does detract from its display value compared to pristine examples. The market for EAPG is stable but niche. Jefferson Glass is collectible, but pieces with significant decoration loss generally command lower prices as 'cabinet fillers' rather than premium specimens. Similar nappies in this pattern with 80%+ retained flashing can sell for $60-$85, whereas examples like this typically trade in the $25-$45 range. Disclaimer: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. Without physical inspection, I cannot confirm the absence of microscopic stress cracks or professional repairs to the rim. Furthermore, confirming the specific glass chemistry (manganese vs. inherent pink tint) requires UV light testing or chemical analysis not possible here. The value assumes the glass is free of structural damage not visible in the photos.