Clear glass dinnerware remains a collectible niche to this
Clear glass dinnerware remains a collectible niche to this day. The most popular of the iridescent glass patterns for collectors is the Fenton carnival glass that reached the height of popularity in the 1900’s. Collectors also remain interested in Northwood Glass pieces. Northwood began introducing their iridescent glass in 1908 and became a major competitor in the market.
Soon after it was introduced in a trade magazine in October 1907, the Fenton carnival glass began to be produced commercially. Of the over 2,000 different patterns which have been created, about 1,000 became well known, including the kitten and rabbit patterns which were so popular among children. The remaining 1,000 patterns were not produced in such quantity and are considered rare.
The iridescent glass appeared to have a metallic luster and sheen and was very unique in appearance. Items such as bowls, mugs, vases, plates, and entire table settings are produced using this glass. Popular colors in which the pieces were made were marigold, cobalt, and amethyst and these were the best sellers.
Fenton carnival glasses are created by the pressure of liquid glass in hot metal molds. It will take the form of the molds as it gets colder, and being hot the glass is sprayed with a unique mix of metallic salt in liquid. This action will produce the iridescent sheen. To avoid cracks, it is cooled quite slowly and glass takes up to 24 hours to gain room temperatures.
The pieces were originally sold in dime stores across America, but after sales decreased and popularity waned, it was sold in bulk to carnivals who gave it away as prizes on the midway. This is how it gained the name “carnival” glass. The rainbow colors were also fitting in a carnival setting.
Many people around the country collects Fenton Carnival glass just like clear glass dinnerware. They can usually be seen for sale at online auctions like eBay, yard and estate sales and antique shops. There are many live auctions which feature carnival glass only because it is popular. You can search auctions near you at the web.
Glassware is always fragile, so always treat it carefully. Even a very small bump can affect the play of light on the glass, ruining the shine, as can extended exposure to direct sunlight. Fine glassware should never be place in the dishwasher, but should only be washed by hand and dried with very soft cloth so as not to cause abrasions.
Clear glass dinnerware and carnival glass are part of a unique collectible niche. Fenton carnival glass, with its metallic sheen and variety of patterns, is a favorite of many collectors. After introducing the line in 1907, Fenton went on to produce more than 2000 patterns, including the kitten and rabbit patterns that children love. Their closest competitor, Northwood Glass, began producing similar glassware in 1908. The glassware was originally sold in dime stores across the country, but as popularity waned they were sold in bulk to carnivals for use as prizes, earning it the name “Carnival Glass”.
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