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Fenton Carnival Glass - Fragile Beauty

by Menachem Green

Became very popular in 1900s, a shimmering glass pattern called Fenton carnival glass still continue to attract interest today. The Fenton carnival glass find its self the most popular even if other companies have made clear glass dinnerware over time. Northwood glass became the major competitor of Fenton carnival glass in 1908 introducing their shimmering glass items.

In October 1907 the Fenton carnival glass was introduced on a trade magazine and the production was started immediately after that. On the total patterns of 2000 made about 1000 patters are best known while the rest of 1000 patterns become rarer. Patterns like kitten and rabbit were popular among children

The iridescent glass appeared to have a metallic luster and sheen, making it uinque and visually appealing. Many different pieces were produced including bowls, mugs, vases, plates and even entire table settings. A variety of colors were used, but the best sellers were marigold, cobalt, and amethyst.

Liquid glass is pressed into a hot metal mold to produce fenton carnival glass. While cooling it takes the shape of the mold, and while it is still hot it is sprayed with a unique mixture containing metallic salts in liquid. This results into the iridescent sheen. To prevent the glass from cracking it is cooled very slowly and brought to the room temperature in full 24 hours.

After sales decreased and popularity waned, the pieces were sold in bulk to carnivals who gave it away on the midway, but they were sold to begin with in dime stores across America. Not surprisingly, it gained the name "carnival" glass as a consequence, a fitting name as the rainbow colors were well-suited to the carnival setting.

Fenton carnival glass, such as other clear glass dinnerware is being collected by many persons around the country. It is pretty often that individual parts are seen at the yard sales,to buy antique ones and for sales at on-line auctioneers as eBay. Because of the popularity there are auctions for only carneval glass. Search on-line for the auctioneers close to you.

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.

The most popular of the iridescent glass patterns is fenton carnival glass that reached the height of popularity in the 1900's. Other types of clear glass dinnerware remain a collectible niche to this day. Collectors also remain interested in the product of a competitor, northwood glass. The iridescent glass appeared to have a metallic luster and sheen and was very unique in appearance. The pieces were originally sold in dime stores across America, but after sales decreased and popularity waned, it was sold in bulk to carnivals. Remember that the glassware is fragile, and must be treated carefully.

Published August 10th, 2007

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