Let’s talk about the WHITE! White as in Milk Glass!
“Milk Glass is the current collector’s name for milk-white opaque glass. the early glass maker’s term was Opal Ware. Originally attempted in England in the eighteenth century with the intention of imitating china, milk glass was not commercially successful until the mid-1800′s. Pieces produced in the USA, England and France during the 1870-1900 period are highly prized for their intricate detail and fiery, opalescent edges.” states Schroder’s Antiques Price Guide, 19th Edition, copyright 2001.
Fenton Story: The Fenton Art Glass Company was founded in 1905 by Frank L. Fenton and his brother John W. Fenton in an old glass factory building in Martins Ferry, Ohio. They began by painting decorations on glass blanks made by other glass manufacturers. Soon, being unable to get the glass they needed, they decided to produce their own glass. The first glass from the new Fenton factory in Williamstown, West Virginia, was made on January 2, 1907.
Frank L. Fenton’s desire to develop new and unusual colors helped to keep Fenton in the forefront of the handmade art glass industry. During the years from 1905 to the 1920′s, Fenton design was influenced by the artists at Tiffany and Steuben. In late 1907, Fenton introduced “Iridescent” glass. This glass, now known as “Carnival” glass, is a popular collectible today. During the 1930′s and 1940′s, Fenton produced practical items, such as mixing bowls and tableware to get through the depression and WWII shortages.
In 1986, the leadership of the company passed on to the third generation, with George W. Fenton, Frank M’s son, taking over as President. Today eight Fenton family members work together along with over 100 employees to create handmade glass artistry that is loved by collectors around the world. Fenton is known for its beautiful colors and patterns. Each piece of glass is an artistic creation by skilled glassworkers and decorators.” [From Fenton/Handcrafted American Glass Aristry web page.]
Red Retro Amberina Compote, White Hobnail Milk Glass Cake Plate and
Blue “Big Trout” Pattern Glass Child’s Punch Set