Pink Depression Glass Saucer with Wheel-Cut Floral Etching

This is a circular glass saucer crafted from translucent pink depression glass, likely dating from the late 1920s to the 1930s. The piece features a shallow central well designed to hold a teacup, surrounded by a wide rim embellished with wheel-cut or frosted etchings. The decorative pattern consists of five-petal wildflowers connected by delicate stems and stylized leaves, set against a background of concentric circular bands and vertical ribbing on the underside. The glass displays the characteristic light pink hue popular during the Great Depression Era, often referred to as 'Rosalin' or 'Pink Dogwood' tones. In terms of condition, there are visible surface scratches and 'utensil marks' in the center of the well, along with some slight cloudiness or mineral film likely from age and washing. Small imperfections like air bubbles (seeds) are visible within the glass, which are common manufacturing artifacts of the period. No major chips or cracks are immediately evident on the rim, suggesting fair to good vintage condition with expected wear for a functional household item of its age. The craftsmanship reflects mass-produced quality with hand-finished etched detailing.

I have examined the provided details and imagery for this pink depression glass saucer. The piece exhibits the standard characteristics of American glassware produced between 1929 and 1939, including the 'Rosalin' hue and characteristic manufacturing seeds (air bubbles). The wheel-cut floral etching adds decorative value over simpler press-molded patterns, though the presence of utensil marks and mineral film—likely 'sick glass' from alkaline dishwasher exposure—materially impacts the collector's value. Market conditions for Depression-era glass remain soft; while complete sets or rare patterns like 'Mayfair' or 'Royal Lace' command premiums, individual saucers are common orphaned pieces often found in secondary markets. Comparables for single etched saucers in this condition typically sell in the $5 to $15 range at antique malls or online auctions. The primary value-detractor here is the cloudiness and surface wear, as glass collectors prioritize 'mint' clarity. This appraisal is based on a visual examination of the photograph only. I cannot definitively verify the manufacturer without a physical inspection for specific mold marks or weight-matching. A full authentication would require hands-on inspection to check for modern reproductions (which often have thicker glass and an 'oily' finish), a blacklight test to observe fluorescence (though uncommon in pink glass), and provenance documenting its history. This estimate reflects a fair market value for a functional, vintage household item with standard wear for its age.