Collecting 1920's Carnival Glass Bowls

Collecting 1920's Carnival Glassware

Carnival Glass was first made as a specialty glass for the upper class during the early 1900's. It was simply molded bowls that were flash burned with different color dyes in a special process and then sold in home decor stores. As the economy receded and sales did not produce in this market, the distribution of the bowls moved over to the entertainment industry and individual bowls were sometimes sold to carnival goers, but more often they were given as prizes and incentives for people to spend money at these early shows.

In today's antiques market, Carnival glass stands out on its own, and it is fairly easy for the experienced collector of this glassware to spot a piece as he browses through a store. Just look for any colored glassware, and then identify the burned look of the surface. Even though most Carnival glass isn't marked by the manufacturer, Its not easy to reproduce and most likely will turn out to be original.

Values of this glassware can range from a mere $10 upwards to the $400.00 range, depending on the style, condition, and the color series it was made of. Research of carnival glass value is fairly easy, with online access, or use of a glassware value catalog. Values are set mostly by picture reference, not by catalog number or other markings, as this process is so unique to a certain place and time in history.

Each piece is individually flash-burned and may not exactly match any other, yet there are matching sets of the same style and color. The ones that I have found interest in are the blue flashed grape bowls and recently the orange flashed bowl sets. I have found 2 perfect 4 footed bowls that measure about 5 inches tall, about 8 inches width and about 13 inches in length. I have blue flashed matching single pedestal bowl with scalloped edges. The average value of the bowls I have are in the $65 dollar range. They are great center piece decorations, and still can be carefully used for serving bowls, though I prefer not to use them functionally and keep them for the sake of having a piece of American history. Its also amazing that you can still find sets of this glassware, maybe a punch bowl with four or six goblets, or a set of matching bowls, with a pitcher.

Its not likely that one collector has personally seen or touched all the different styles and colors involved in the early creation of Carnival Glass Bowls, for their were quite a number of them made. I'm sure, as in all antiques that many of these delicate keepsakes have been lost, unrecognized as antique, and certainly many that were broken throughout history. However, If someone is on the sharp lookout, you will see a piece or two from time to time as you browse through the local flea markets, Goodwill's, and antique stores. The best thing to do is act casual and not bring attention to your knowing they are so special, and you might get one fairly under priced. Then you can go home and browse the web for its corresponding picture and value, while finding you obtained a very excellent bargain!

I'm sure that as you look for these treasures, you will grow a preference for a specific style or color carnival glass. Its not particularly distressing to pass a piece by, especially if you are searching for only one style, but just remember, they are becoming less available and harder to find as time goes on. I hope you make this a part of your search the next time you are out second hand store hopping, or going yard selling. I'm sure you won't be disappointed when you find your own 1920's flash burned Carnival glass bowl!

Jan. 25, 2018