Godinger Lead Crystal Bird Votive Holders, Set of Two

A pair of highly decorative crystal votive or tea light holders, likely manufactured by Godinger Silver Art Co. in their signature 24% lead crystal. Each holder stands approximately 6 to 7 inches tall and is constructed in three distinct sections. The top cup features a rich pineapple or starburst geometric cut pattern designed to refract light brilliantly when a candle is lit. This rests upon a stem meticulously molded into the form of a bird (likely a dove or songbird) with frosted or textured feather details along the wings and breast. The piece is supported by a circular, tiered base with a radiating sunburst cut pattern on the underside. The glass is clear with high brilliance, suggesting high lead content typical of late 20th-century decorative glassware. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant surface scratches, though light atmospheric dust and minor shelf wear on the base are present. This style reached the height of its popularity in the late 1980s and 1990s, blending traditional Victorian-inspired pressed glass aesthetics with modern manufacturing techniques.

Based on my visual inspection of this pair of Godinger lead crystal bird votive holders, I find them to be in excellent vintage condition. The items exhibit the high refractive index and clarity characteristic of 24% lead crystal, with the frosted birds providing a sophisticated contrast to the geometric starburst cuts of the cups and bases. No significant chips or clouding (etching) were observed, which often plagues crystal of this era. Market demand for Godinger ‘Shannon’ collection and similar avian-themed glassware remains steady but abundant. These pieces were mass-produced during the 1980s and 1990s, meaning they are not considered rare. They frequently appear in the secondary market (eBay, Etsy, and estate sales) where sets in pristine condition typically hammer between $40 and $70. The presence of two identical pieces as a pair slightly enhances the value, as singular replacements are more common. While the design language is consistent with Godinger Silver Art Co., definitive move-to-market authentication is limited by the absence of original stickers or acid-etched marks in the photographs. To fully verify authenticity and value, I would require an in-person physical tactile inspection to check for 'seam' smoothness (distinguishing between pressed and hand-cut elements) and a 'ring' test to confirm lead content through resonance. Furthermore, original branded packaging or a bill of sale would provide provenance that could push the value toward the higher end of the estimated range.