The Piece
A pair of petite pressed-glass vanity or condiment dishes, square in form with scalloped, sawtooth edges and faint remnants of hand-applied gold gilt along the rim. Likely produced in the 1940s–1950s, these pieces combine midcentury practicality with a touch of vintage glamour. Their symmetrical faceting and starburst bases catch and refract light, making them ideal as decorative catchalls, nut dishes, or individual ashtrays in a cocktail setting.
Design & Construction
→ Form & Style:
Square with raised lobed sides, flaring slightly outward toward the rim. The exterior panels are vertically ribbed, tapering to a radiating sunburst motif pressed into the base—an optical hallmark of American and European pressed glass from the mid-20th century. The gilt rim, though softly worn, adds a subtle touch of luxury typical of Hollywood Regency–era tabletop design.
→ Material:
Pressed clear glass with molded geometric pattern and applied gold enamel trim. The weight and clarity suggest soda-lime glass rather than lead crystal—bright and durable, with a pleasant tactile density.
→ Manufacture:
Probably American or Czechoslovakian origin, both known for producing similar decorative smallwares for vanity or table service between 1940 and 1960. The absence of a molded mark or pontil indicates factory press-molding rather than hand finishing.
History & Provenance
Small gilt-edged pressed glass dishes were staples of postwar domestic life, used in powder rooms, cocktail trays, or bedroom vanities to hold rings, cigarettes, or sugar cubes. The midcentury emphasis on reflective surfaces and gilded accents lent affordable glamour to modest homes—an echo of the Art Deco fascination with light and geometry, now softened for peacetime elegance.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. Light surface wear to gilding consistent with age; no chips, cracks, or clouding. Edges retain crisp definition, and bases are clean with minimal shelf wear.
Product Details
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Maker | Unknown glasshouse, likely American or Czechoslovakian |
| Origin | United States or Europe |
| Year | c. 1940–1955 |
| Material | Pressed clear glass with gilt rim |
| Pattern / Form | Square, ribbed sides, starburst base |
| Finish | Transparent with partial gold enamel rim |
| Use | Vanity dish, nut dish, or individual ashtray |
| Condition | Excellent vintage condition; gilt gently worn |
| Set | Two matching dishes |
Why It Belongs in Your Home
These sparkling little squares add instant polish to a nightstand, vanity, or bar cart. Their faceted sides and subtle gold trim reflect light beautifully, bridging everyday utility with vintage refinement. Style them together for layered dimension or separately as charming accent pieces that whisper midcentury glamour.