An anodized aluminum pitcher, 1950s-60s
Victorian Majolica vase, in a corn cob motif.
1880s, Victorian, pressed-glass pitcher known as “mother-of-pearl satin glass.
An anodized aluminum pitcher, 1950s-60s
Antique Aluminum Pitcher: I found this colorful aluminum pitcher last year at the local flea market. I have been using it in my home office, filled with flowers from my garden.
It is around 8 inches high. It has a maker’s mark that is worn away. The seller said it was made in the 1960s. I paid $5 for it.
What can you tell me about it? Did I find a treasure?
Answer: Your anodized aluminum pitcher is a historical treasure, not a financial one. It, along with other colorful aluminum drinking glasses, bowls and trays, marked the beginning of patio and outdoor dining in the 1950s and 1960s.
The items were made by not only American manufacturers, but in Italy and Japan. Many were giveaways, along with, or filled with, foodstuffs such as cottage cheese. The pitcher sets were also awarded for coupons in grocery store giveaways. Signatures on the bottom often said “sunburst.”
They are being newly appreciated. Currently, low prices will probably go up. Your pitcher can fetch $30 in a vintage shop.
1880s, Victorian, pressed-glass pitcher known as “mother-of-pearl satin glass.
Victorian Glass Pitcher: My late grandmother had a cabinet filled with Victorian glass objects that included vases, jars and figurines. When she died in the 1970s, they were sold at auction for top dollar.
Recently, my mother went into a nursing home and I found what I think is a Victorian glass pitcher. It is 9 inches high with a fancy handle. I have no knowledge of it, nor interest in it, and would like to know what it is called and if it has any value.
Answer: Prices and collector interests have changed since the 1970s. Victorian pressed glass is no longer popular and prices are low, except for unusual pieces.
Your 1880s, Victorian, pressed-glass pitcher is known as “mother-of-pearl satin glass.” The applied acanthus-leaf handle adds to the value. There are still collectors who would pay over $100 for it.
Victorian Majolica vase, in a corn cob motif.
Pottery Vase: I am interested in objects related to vegetables. This pottery vase was for sale at a neighbor’s garage sale. I was able to buy it before the dealers and pickers came in. The seller said it is “majolica” and old.
What can you tell me about it and its value. It is 6-1/4 inches high. There is no maker’s mark, but it is in good shape.
What could be the dealer price? I paid $20 for it.
L.F., Boynton Beach, Florida
Answer: You have a Victorian Majolica vase, in a corn cob motif. This type of Majolica pottery vase was made in England and America in the mid- to late-19th centuries.
By 1900, it was out of fashion. However, there was a revival of interest in the 20th century.
However, since so many were reproduced, prices were low. The good news is that collectors are again interested. Your corn-themed, figural Majolica vase could find a buyer for $250 or more.
Antique dolls are more than just toys, and some are quite valuable to collectors.
Collecting fads may come and go, but items decorated with historic American symbols still attract a new generation of current collectors.
Authentic Bennington pottery objects, from figurines to kitchen wares, continue to be popular with Americana collectors.
While hundreds of reproductions of blue-and-white porcelains with Ming signatures show up for sale, few prove to be authentic.
Anne Gilbert is a private consultant doing antiques appraisals for a fee. She can be reached at 1811 Renaissance Commons Blvd., Unit 2310, Boynton Beach, FL 33426.
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