Carnival Glass Short-Stemmed Tumbler or Goblet

This item is a short-stemmed glass in a vibrant marigold or iridescent amber color, characteristic of Carnival Glass. It features a flared base and a cylindrical body that narrows slightly towards the mouth. The glass is heavily embossed with a repeating floral or foliate pattern, appearing primarily on the upper two-thirds of the body. The design includes swirling scrolls, fan-like motifs, and stylized leaves, demonstrating a molded construction. There are vertical flutes or ribs on the stem and around the lower part of the body, transitioning into the main embossed pattern. The iridescence, a hallmark of Carnival Glass, changes hue with light, displaying shifts from golden orange to hints of green and pink. The glass exhibits visible signs of wear and age, particularly on the base and lower body, where there are areas of cloudiness or residue, possibly from hard water deposits or oxidation. This wear detracts from the overall clarity and shimmer in those specific areas. The foot of the glass also shows some staining or discoloration. Given the heavily molded patterns and iridescent finish, it likely dates from the early 20th century, typically 1900-1930s, when Carnival Glass was popular. No specific maker's marks are visible in the provided images, which is common for many pieces of this type of glassware. The craftsmanship is typical of pressed glass techniques of the period, designed for mass production rather than fine artistry, yet it holds decorative appeal due to its color and pattern.

Upon examining the images provided, I have assessed this piece as a short-stemmed tumbler or goblet made of Carnival Glass, likely from the early 20th century (c. 1900-1930). The vibrant marigold iridescence and the heavily embossed floral and scroll pattern are characteristic of this period. The piece appears authentic to its type, though without maker's marks, which is common. The condition is fair; while the overall structure is intact, there are noticeable signs of wear, including cloudiness, residue likely from hard water deposits, and some staining on the base. These condition issues detract from the glass's lustrous appeal and negatively impact its value. The market for common Carnival Glass patterns remains accessible. This piece, while decorative, does not appear to be a rare pattern or color combination. Comparable tumblers in similar condition, without specific attribution to a major maker like Fenton, Northwood, or Dugan, typically sell in the lower range of the market. Demand is steady among collectors of early American pressed glass, but the value is highly dependent on condition and rarity. The visible wear is the most significant factor depressing the value here. It is important to note the limitations of an appraisal based solely on images. A physical examination is necessary to confirm the absence of any hairline cracks, chips, or repairs not visible in the photos. Verifying authenticity would involve checking for known patterns, examining the glass for any subtle maker's marks, and assessing the quality of the iridescence and glass clarity firsthand.