Fenton A-Z
A reference catalog of Fenton Art Glass patterns, production years, and values by John Walk.
This reference volume focuses on the physical inventory and cataloging of pieces made by the Fenton Art Glass Company. The contents center on structured tables detailing color codes, verified pattern titles, dates of production, and secondary market valuations. It features visual documentation through more than 390 color photographs across multiple styles, including Overlay, Satin, Opalescent, and Robert Barber wares. Author John Walk coordinates this volume with his prior research by adding an internal indexing system that links specific patterns directly to his eight other published books on Fenton output.
This material sits in twentieth-century American commercial decorative art and collecting. It records commercial output produced by the Fenton Art Glass Company beginning in 1905, tracing patterns, anniversary editions, and designer lines made across its manufacturing history.
📝 Description: Fenton A-Z
💎 Expert review
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
This book is a treasure trove for dedicated collectors and historians of American glassware who seek to understand the intricate details behind Fenton's iconic creations. Readers will gain immense value from its meticulous compilation of identification markers, which are crucial for authenticating pieces in the secondary market. The inclusion of historical context transforms simple object appreciation into a deeper understanding of the brand's evolution since 1905. With over 390 color illustrations, it aids visual learners in distinguishing between styles like Opalescent and Carnival Glass. It is essential for anyone looking to navigate the vast array of Fenton’s output with confidence, ensuring they can appreciate and validate the dazzling legacy of this beloved art form through authoritative data.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Walk delivers a comprehensive and visually stunning compendium that stands as an indispensable reference for serious enthusiasts. The volume excels in providing detailed insights into countless styles, supported by exquisite color illustrations that aid in precise identification. However, it is strictly a cataloging tool rather than a narrative history; readers seeking literary storytelling or deep philosophical analysis of the art form will find it lacking. It is also less suitable for casual browsers uninterested in valuation data or technical specifications. This work demands a specific audience: those who value rigorous documentation and historical accuracy over whimsical prose, making it a vital resource for the dedicated collector rather than the general public.
❓ Frequently asked questions
📖 Who should read this
If you're drawn to the intricate beauty of American art glass, whether a seasoned collector seeking precise identification or a newcomer curious about vintage treasures, this guide is crafted for you. It's an essential companion for enthusiasts, historians, and anyone enchanted by the artistry of glassmaking.
🎯 Key themes and symbolism
Fenton's Glass Spectrum
Explore the kaleidoscopic range of Fenton's artistic output, spanning iconic styles like Burmese, Hobnail, and Silver Crest. The book meticulously categorizes and illustrates these diverse glass types, including special editions and Christmas items, offering unparalleled clarity for identification and appreciation of the company's evolving aesthetic and technical mastery over the decades.
A Company's Chronicle
Delve into the fascinating history of the Fenton Art Glass Company, charting its journey from its founding in 1905. This section provides a foundational understanding of the company's evolution, its pivotal role in American art glass production, and the significant milestones that shaped its distinctive styles, offering crucial context for collectors and historians alike.
Collector's Valuation Guide
Gain critical insights into the current market value of Fenton pieces. The guide includes extensive tables detailing pattern names, color codes, production years, and estimated values. This practical information empowers collectors to accurately assess their finds and make informed decisions, transforming casual admiration into knowledgeable engagement with the art glass market.
📜 Historical context
📚 Glossary
- Art Glass
- Opalescent
- Carnival Glass
📔 Questions to reflect on
- Reflect on a piece of art glass that holds personal significance to you. What story does it tell, and how does its craftsmanship speak to you?
- Consider the transient nature of material value. How do you think the appraisal of historical objects like Fenton glass will evolve in the coming decades, and why?
- Beyond its material form, what 'spirit' or 'essence' do you believe is imbued in a handcrafted object like Fenton glass? How does this connect to broader esoteric traditions?
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📖 From the series “Schiffer Book for Collectors”
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