Ruby Red Hand-Pressed Art Glass Scalloped Plate

This is a circular ruby red art glass plate, approximately 8 to 10 inches in diameter, featuring a distinctive deeply scalloped or lobed rim that creates a floral or gear-like silhouette. The plate is crafted from thick, translucent glass with a rich oxblood or crimson hue. A primary distinguishing feature is the heavy internal textural pattern, which appears to be a 'crackle' or 'ice glass' finish, characterized by dense, chaotic web-like striations that catch and refract light. The center of the plate features a raised or recessed circular well, suggesting it may have functioned as a charger or a saucer for a matching bowl or pedestal. The construction indicates a mid-20th-century origins, likely between 1950 and 1970, consistent with decorative glass manufacturers such as Viking, Blenko, or Tiffin. While no maker's marks are visible in the current orientation, the glass shows high clarity despite the surface texture. Regarding condition, the piece is shown outdoors in grass, with visible surface moisture or debris that suggests it may have been used as a garden ornament. There are no obvious large chips or cracks visible, but the rim should be inspected for biting or 'flea bites' common in pressed glass of this age. The organic, heavy craftsmanship suggests a quality decorative piece rather than mass-produced contemporary tableware.

Based on my examination of this ruby red hand-pressed art glass plate, I have identified it as a mid-20th-century decorative piece consistent with American manufacturers like Viking Glass or Tiffin. The distinctive scalloped edge and 'crackle' or 'ice glass' texture are hallmark features of the 1960s-1970s era. The oxblood hue is deeply saturated, a desirable trait among collectors of 'Amberina' or 'Ruby' glassware. I assessed the condition as 'Fair to Good' based on the photographic evidence; however, the outdoor placement suggests potential exposure-related wear, such as calcium deposits or fine scratching. The market for mid-century glass remains steady, though common forms like chargers and saucers are widely available. Comparable pieces from Viking’s 'Epic' or 'Georgian' lines typically sell within the $40 to $80 range at regional auctions. The value is driven primarily by the vibrancy of the red pigment and the integrity of the scalloped lobes. Limitations of this virtual appraisal include the inability to inspect for 'flea bites' or internal crazing not visible in the image. For a definitive authentication, an in-person inspection of the pontil mark and base wear is required to rule out modern mass-produced reproductions. Verification of a maker’s mark or original foil label would significantly bolster the secondary market value toward the higher end of the estimate.