Fenton Holly Pattern Carnival Glass Ruffled Bowl in Amethyst

This is a vintage carnival glass bowl produced by the Fenton Art Glass Company, featuring the highly collectible 'Holly' pattern. The bowl is crafted from pressed amethyst glass with a vivid iridescent metallic spray coating that produces a striking 'oil slick' or rainbow effect, displaying flashes of magenta, gold, and turquoise. The interior center is decorated with a detailed starburst medallion, from which radiating branches of holly leaves and berries extend toward the perimeter. The bowl features a deeply ruffled or 'crimped' edge, which was a signature hand-finished technique used by Fenton artisans. Measuring approximately 8 to 9 inches in diameter, this piece likely dates from the early 20th century (circa 1910-1920s), a period known for the highest quality iridescent coatings. The condition appears excellent with a strong luster and no visible chips or cracks. The intricate mold work shows high-quality craftsmanship, with sharp definition in the leaf veins and berries. The base would typically feature a collar foot, and the overall saturation of the amethyst base glass suggests a classic antique production rather than a mid-century reissue.

I have examined the images and descriptions of this Fenton Holly pattern ruffled bowl in amethyst. The iridescence is particularly vibrant, showing the classic magenta and 'peacock' teal highlights indicative of early 20th-century production. The sharp mold definition in the berries and the 'crimped' edge treatment suggest this is an original 1910-1920s piece rather than a later 1970s reissue, as the later versions often lack the deep saturation of the base glass seen here. In the current market, Fenton's Holly remains a staple for carnival glass collectors. While the pattern is relatively common, the quality of the finish and the lack of visible 'wear' on the high points of the Holly leaves elevate this specific piece. Recent auction results for similar amethyst 8-9 inch ruffled bowls range from $110 to $190 depending on the intensity of the luster. Authenticity appears consistent with authentic Fenton production. However, a conclusive valuation is limited by the digital format. A physical inspection is necessary to check for 'flea bites' on the collar base and internal heat checks that are invisible in photos. Furthermore, I would need to verify the absence of the 'Fenton' logo in an oval, which began appearing in the 1970s, to definitively rule out a high-quality reissue. For insurance purposes, provenance or a bill of sale from a recognized glass estate would be recommended to support this valuation.