Vintage MCM Brass Adjustable Bathroom Towel Rack With Milk Glass Base Appraisal
Category: Home Decor / Bathroom Accessory
Description
This is a vintage Mid-Century Modern (MCM) adjustable bathroom towel rack. It features a brass construction for the main column and crossbars, exhibiting a warm, metallic golden hue that suggests a polished or lacquered finish, though some minor tarnishing or patina might be present consistent with age. The rack stands on a distinctive milk glass base, which appears to be molded with a hobnail or similar textured pattern, adding a decorative and stable foundation. The base is white and opaque, characteristic of milk glass. The main brass column is fluted or grooved in sections and is topped with a simple finial. Attached to the column are three horizontal brass bars, designed to hold towels. These bars appear capable of swiveling or being adjusted, indicating the 'adjustable' feature mentioned in the description. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced item from the mid-20th century, sturdy enough for its intended domestic use. No specific maker's marks are visible in the provided image. The item appears to be in good vintage condition, suitable for immediate use, with any wear likely contributing to its aged aesthetic.
Appraisal Report
Upon examination of the images provided, this vintage Mid-Century Modern (MCM) bathroom towel rack presents as a charming and authentic example of its period. The combination of a brass structure with a milk glass base is characteristic of the era's design, blending functional utility with decorative flair. The piece appears to be in good vintage condition. The brass shows a consistent, warm patina appropriate for its age, without significant corrosion or damage. The milk glass base, with its hobnail-style texturing, appears intact with no visible chips or cracks. The adjustable, swiveling arms are a desirable feature that enhances its functionality. Based on current market conditions, there is a steady demand for well-preserved MCM home accessories. Comparable items, often referred to as 'valet stands' or 'towel butlers', from known manufacturers like Art-Phyl, frequently sell in online marketplaces and vintage shops. Its primary value driver is its strong aesthetic appeal and good condition. The lack of a visible maker's mark and the fact that these were often mass-produced prevents it from reaching a higher valuation. It is important to note that this appraisal is based solely on visual inspection of images. An in-person examination would be required to confirm the material composition (e.g., solid brass vs. plated), check for hairline cracks in the glass, and search for any faint or hidden maker's marks that could definitively attribute it to a specific designer or company, which could alter the value.
Appraisal Value
$65-95