Fostoria Chintz Etched Crystal Water Goblet

This is a fine example of a stemware goblet featuring the 'Chintz' etched pattern, most likely manufactured by the Fostoria Glass Company. The item is crafted from high-clarity lead crystal with a delicate transparency that suggests high-quality production. The bowl of the goblet is slightly flared at the rim and tapers down to a decorative stem. The etching is a needle-etch style featuring a complex, all-over floral motif of roses, leaves, and scrolled vines, characteristic of early to mid-20th-century American elegant glass (circa 1940-1970). The stem is notably ornate, featuring a multi-faceted or 'honeycomb' knop in the center that provides a tactile grip and catches light brilliantly, sitting atop a flat, circular base. Physically, the piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or significant clouding (calcium deposits). The etching remains crisp and white, indicating it has not been overly worn by abrasive washing. The craftsmanship is indicative of the 'Elegant Glass' era where glass was hand-finished and fire-polished to remove mold marks, resulting in a smooth, seamless feel to the rim and base.

I have examined the digital representations and descriptions of this Fostoria Chintz #340 etched goblet. The item displays the hallmark characteristics of the 'Elegant Glass' period, specifically Fostoria’s Chintz pattern (#340) on the #6017 stem, which was produced between 1940 and 1970. The needle etching appears crisp, and the fire-polished finish on the rim and base suggests authentic high-quality production consistent with Fostoria’s manufacturing standards. The lack of visible clouding or chips significantly helps maintain its secondary market value. The market for mid-century elegant stemware is currently stable but specialized. Comparables for single water goblets in the Chintz pattern typically realize between $25 and $45 depending on the specific retail venue and regional demand. While the pattern is popular among collectors of American crystal, it is not exceedingly rare, as it was produced in high volumes during its run. However, finding pieces in 'excellent vintage condition' as described here provides a competitive edge. My assessment is limited by the digital nature of this examination. Without a physical inspection, I cannot verify the resonance or 'ring' of the lead crystal, nor can I detect microscopic focal nicks or 'flea bites' that often occur along the rim and base. A full authentication would require tactile inspection for weight and clarity, a UV light test to check for specific glass signatures, and a review of any original provenance or purchase documentation to rule out contemporary replicas, though the Chintz pattern is not known for frequent high-fidelity counterfeits.