The New England Glass Company, established in 1818 in Cambridge, Massachusetts eventually moved to Ohio in 1888 where it became known as the Libbey glass company. The years prior to the move found the company creating and marketing some amazing art glass pieces in several attractive lines. A renowned English artist, Joseph Locke was developing several innovative formulas for glass production at this time one of which he called Wild Rose. Soon after, he created an offshoot of this line which he distinguished as Agata, officially patented in 1887. The marbleized appearance on the surface was created by adding metallic stains as well as splattering volatile liquids such as alcohol or benzene which as these chemicals evaporated from the hot glass small pools and veins of color would appear. Pieces often found in this line were produced for utilitarian use such as table sets, waters sets as well as assorted shapes for the table. Production of this line lasted less than a year hence examples are very scarce in the marketplace today.
This exquisite example known as a spooner, was part of the four piece table set. The rich pink color at the top scallop rim feed into a soft creamy hue at the base with veins of gold and blue gray scattered on the outside surface. The vase measures 4 3/8” tall and approximately 3 1/4” across the base. A distinct ground and polished pontil can be viewed clearly on the bottom. I can find no chips, cracks, damage or repairs to this item. I will mention for accuracy several swirl mold lines can be viewed especially under magnification starting at the bottom and swirling around the outside towards the top. These lines are smaller than a single hair in diameter and in no way detract from the beauty or value of this piece. A super chance to add a very rare line of Victorian art glass to your collection now available. Please view all pictures as they are considered part of the description.
Please check back to my listings often as I will be posting numerous fine examples of glass, pottery and porcelain in the near future.
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