AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a contemporary clear crystal figurine of a praying angel, approximately 6 to 8 inches in height. It is crafted from heavy, high-clarity lead crystal, featuring a molded design that incorporates stylized flowing robes and finely detailed feathered wings. The angel is depicted in a traditional devotional pose with hands pressed together at the chest. The figure rests upon a solid, square-shaped crystal plinth base. On the front of the base, a manufacturer's gold foil sticker is clearly visible, identifying the brand as 'Mikasa' and including a UPC barcode, which suggests a late 20th-century to early 21st-century manufacturing date. The surfaces show high brilliance and light refraction characteristic of lead glass. The condition appears to be excellent with no visible chips, cracks, or clouding of the crystal. The craftsmanship is indicative of mass-produced decorative glassware, focusing on smooth lines and polished surfaces that maximize the material's reflective properties. There appear to be no custom engravings or artist signatures present beyond the retail labeling.

I have conducted a visual inspection of the Mikasa crystal praying angel figurine. The item appears to be in excellent condition, exhibiting the clarity and brilliance typical of high-quality lead glass. The presence of the original Mikasa gold foil label suggests authenticity and indicates a production date from the late 1990s to early 2000s. The 'Herald Collection' style is characterized by its heavy plinth base and stylized, modern aesthetic. The market for contemporary Mikasa glass is currently saturated; these items were mass-produced for the retail giftware market and sold through major department stores. Consequently, they are not considered rare. Current secondary market trends on platforms like eBay and Etsy show consistent sales for similar 8-inch Mikasa angels in the $20 to $50 range, depending on the inclusion of the original box. The value is primarily decorative rather than as a blue-chip collectible. Factors negatively impacting the value include the lack of an artist signature and the commonality of the design. Limitations of this appraisal: While the image shows no visible damage, a physical inspection is required to detect 'flea bites' (tiny chips) or internal 'sick glass' (clouding from dishwasher use). Full authentication would require verifying the 'Mikasa' acid-etched mark, usually found on the bottom of the base, which is occasionally present alongside or instead of the sticker. No scientific testing is required for this classification of decorative glassware.