There‘s something enchanting about antique glass pitchers. Maybe it‘s their delicate beauty, the way they catch the light, or the sense of history they carry. For many collectors, antique glass pitchers are a passion. But if you‘re new to this world, it can be hard to know where to begin.
In this ultimate guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about collecting antique glass pitchers. You‘ll learn how to identify different types, evaluate their condition and value, find them for your collection, and properly care for these fragile treasures. By the time you finish reading, you‘ll be ready to start or expand your collection with confidence. Let‘s dive in!
What is an Antique Glass Pitcher?
First, let‘s define our terms. An "antique" is generally considered to be an object that is at least 100 years old. So an antique glass pitcher is one that was made in 1923 or earlier. However, you‘ll often see sellers describe more recent vintage glass pitchers as "antique style."
A pitcher is a container with a handle and spout used for holding and pouring liquids. Glass pitchers have been produced for centuries for both practical and decorative purposes. You might find them described as tankards, ewers, or jugs as well.
The History of Glass Pitcher Production
Glassmaking is an ancient art dating back thousands of years. However, it wasn‘t until the invention of press-molded glass in the 1820s that glass tableware like pitchers became widely affordable and available.
In the United States, some of the major glass companies that produced pitchers in the 19th-20th centuries include:
- Boston & Sandwich Glass Company (1825-1888)
- New England Glass Company (1818-1878)
- McKee Glass Company (1834-1951)
- Hobbs, Brockunier and Company (1863-1891)
- U.S. Glass Company (1891-1963)
- Heisey Glass Company (1896-1957)
Knowing the history of the major manufacturers can help you identify and date antique glass pitchers. Now let‘s look at some key features to examine.
How to Identify Antique Glass Pitchers
Here are the main elements to consider when determining if a glass pitcher is a true antique:
Age
As mentioned, to be classified as an antique, a glass pitcher typically needs to be over 100 years old. However, determining the exact age can be tricky. Some clues to look for:
- Pontil marks: Until the mid-1800s, glassblowers used a pontil rod to hold the hot glass while finishing a piece. This often left a pontil scar or mark on the base. The rougher and more uneven the mark, the older the piece tends to be.
- Mold seams: Mold-blown glass will have seams where the parts of the mold came together. Seams that stop partway up the neck are characteristic of glass made from the 1860s-1900s. Seams that go all the way to the top are more common after 1900.
- Bubbles and irregularities: Older glass tends to have more bubbles, streaks, and asymmetry compared to modern machine-made glass, which is more uniform. However, some of these "flaws" were also intentionally added to later reproductions to make them look old.
Maker‘s Marks
Many glass manufacturers marked their wares to distinguish them from competitors. Marks may be embossed, etched, or stuck on as paper labels. They often include the company name, location, and/or logo.
However, not all antique glass was marked, and many marks are hard to decipher due to wear. Also, some companies used different marks at different times, and some marks were used by multiple companies. Consult a collector‘s guide or online database to identify unfamiliar marks.
Style and Design
Pay attention to the overall style and design details of a glass pitcher. Certain patterns, motifs, and forms can help place a piece in a particular time period or with a specific manufacturer. For example:
- Early American pressed glass (1820s-1860s) often featured geometric patterns and motifs like eagles, anchors, flowers, and scrolls.
- Victorian glass (1837-1901) tended towards more ornate, elaborate designs with naturalistic themes. Popular techniques included cased (layered) glass and enamel-painted decoration.
- Art Nouveau glass (1890-1910) emphasized fluid, asymmetrical forms and nature-inspired, stylized motifs.
Material
The chemical composition of glass and manufacturing techniques have evolved over time. For example, early American glass was often made with leaded glass, also known as flint glass, which is heavier and clearer than soda-lime glass. In the late 1800s, carnival glass with iridescent finishes became popular. Uranium glass that glows under UV light was common from the 1840s until WWII.
Popular Types of Antique Glass Pitchers
Now that you know what to look for, let‘s explore some of the most common and sought-after types of antique glass pitchers.
Pressed Glass Pitchers
Pressed glass refers to glass that is shaped by being pressed into a mold rather than blown or cut. It was an inexpensive way to mass-produce glass with intricate patterns. Pressed glass pitchers often have raised designs and a slightly stippled surface texture. Popular patterns included Daisy and Button, Wildflower, and Westward Ho.
Cut Glass Pitchers
Cut glass is made by cutting and polishing a piece of smooth glass to create faceted, geometric designs that sparkle in the light. It reached the height of popularity during the "Brilliant Period" from 1876-1917. Cut glass is generally heavier and more expensive than pressed glass.
Etched and Engraved Glass Pitchers
Etching and engraving are two related techniques for creating designs on glass using acidic or abrasive substances. Etched glass has more frosted, translucent designs, while engraved glass has clearer lines and deeper cuts. Floral, pastoral, and Art Nouveau motifs were common on etched and engraved glass pitchers.
Mercury Glass Pitchers
Despite the name, mercury glass does not actually contain mercury. It consists of glass that is double-walled with a silvering solution inside to create a reflective, silvered appearance. Mercury glass was first produced in England in the 1840s and experienced several waves of popularity into the early 20th century.
Colored Glass Pitchers
Many antique glass pitchers incorporated color, either as cased glass, flashed glass, or colored enamel designs. Amberina glass ranged from red to yellow, and slag glass had marbled streaks of opaque white. Teal, emerald green, cobalt blue, amber, and canary yellow are other hues you might find.
Evaluating Antique Glass Pitchers
To determine the value of an antique glass pitcher, consider these key factors:
Condition
Condition is one of the most important factors affecting value. Chips, cracks, and scratches will significantly lower the worth compared to an identical piece in mint condition. However, some minor flaws are to be expected with age and can add character.
Rarity
Rarer pieces are generally more valuable. This could mean that few examples of that particular design were made, or that not many have survived to the present day. Limited edition and one-of-a-kind pieces also fall into this category.
Age
As a general rule, older pieces are more valuable than newer pieces. However, this isn‘t always the case, as other factors like condition and rarity come into play. A well-preserved piece from 1880 will be worth more than a damaged one from 1820.
Maker
Pieces made by well-known, high-end companies like Tiffany, Steuben, Loetz, and Lalique will command higher prices than those from lesser-known makers. The value is even higher if a piece can be definitively attributed to a particular artist or designer.
Value
While there are general price guides for antique glass, the true value of a piece is what a buyer is willing to pay for it. Prices can fluctuate due to decorating trends, the economy, and the whims of collectors. Always do your own research and consult multiple sources before making a major purchase.
Where to Find Antique Glass Pitchers
Half the fun of collecting is the thrill of the hunt! Here are some of the best places to look for antique glass pitchers:
Antique Stores and Markets
Antique stores, markets, and fairs are great places to see a wide variety of glass in person. You can inspect pieces up close, ask the seller questions, and comparison shop. However, prices may be higher than other sources, as dealers need to cover their overhead costs.
Estate Sales and Auctions
Estate sales, auctions, and yard sales can be a great way to snag a deal, as sellers may not always know the true value of what they have. However, it‘s important to thoroughly inspect any pieces before buying, as sales are often "as is" with no returns. Online auction sites like eBay are another option, but be sure to review photos carefully and ask the seller questions.
Online Marketplaces
In addition to eBay, there are many other online marketplaces that specialize in antiques and collectibles, such as Ruby Lane, Etsy, and 1stDibs. These can be a convenient way to shop from a wide selection of vetted sellers. However, you‘ll need to factor in shipping costs and the risk of damage in transit.
Buying Antique Glass Pitchers
When you‘re ready to make a purchase, there are a few things to keep in mind:
In-Person vs Online
If possible, it‘s always best to examine a piece in person before buying. This allows you to check for damage, verify dimensions, and get a sense of the weight and quality of the glass. If buying online, be sure to request detailed photos and measurements.
What to Look For
In addition to the identification and evaluation factors mentioned above, consider how a pitcher fits into your collection as a whole. Is it a rare example of a particular style or maker? Does it fill a gap or complement your existing pieces?
Questions to Ask
Don‘t be afraid to ask the seller questions before making a purchase. Reputable dealers should be knowledgeable and upfront about their wares. Some questions to consider:
- How old is this piece?
- Do you know who made it?
- Is there a maker‘s mark?
- Is it in mint condition, or are there any flaws?
- What is the size and capacity?
- Do you offer a guarantee of authenticity?
- What are the return and shipping policies?
Potential Red Flags
Unfortunately, there are disreputable sellers out there. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, vague or inconsistent descriptions, and sellers who are evasive or unwilling to answer questions. When in doubt, walk away.
Caring for Your Antique Glass Pitchers
Caring for antique glass pitchers requires a gentle touch. Here are some tips to keep your collection in top shape:
Cleaning
Clean glass pitchers by hand with a soft brush, mild dish soap, and lukewarm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface. Dry thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth. For stubborn stains, consult a professional conservator.
Handling
Always handle glass pitchers with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils and dirt. Lift from the base, not the handle, which may be delicate or weakened with age. Never pick up a pitcher by the spout, rim, or lid. Use a tray lined with a soft cloth to transport pitchers securely.
Storage
Store pitchers in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time. Keep them away from heat sources and extreme temperature changes. If stacking pitchers, place a soft cloth or padded divider between them to prevent scratches. Make sure shelves are sturdy and not overloaded.
Display
Display your pitchers where they can be seen and appreciated, but out of high-traffic areas where they might get bumped or knocked over. If placing on a high shelf, make sure they are far enough back from the edge. Consider using a glass case or cabinet to protect them from dust and accidental damage.
Conclusion
Collecting antique glass pitchers can be a fascinating and rewarding hobby. By learning how to identify, evaluate, and care for these delicate beauties, you‘ll be well on your way to building a stunning collection. Remember to always handle with care, ask plenty of questions, and most importantly, choose pieces that speak to you. Happy collecting!
Resources to Learn More
Want to dive deeper into the world of antique glass pitchers? Check out these resources:
Books:
- Antique Trader‘s Bottles Identification & Price Guide by Michael Polak
- The Standard Encyclopedia of Pressed Glass 1860-1930 by Mike Carwile
- Kovels‘ American Pressed Glass and Figured Bottles by Ralph and Terry Kovel
Websites:
- National American Glass Club: http://glassclub.org/
- Antique Bottle Collectors Haven: https://www.antiquebottles.com/
- Early American Pattern Glass Society: http://www.eapgs.org/
Museums with Notable Glass Collections:
- Corning Museum of Glass (Corning, NY)
- Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion (Toledo, OH)
- Chrysler Museum of Art Glass Studio (Norfolk, VA)
Clubs and Associations:
- The National American Glass Club
- The Historical Glass Bottle Collectors Association
- The Antique Bottle Collectors Association of America
