1960s Federal Glass Celestial Starburst Iridescent Ruffled Bowl 8"

DESCRIPTION

A luminous mid-century glass bowl in the Celestial, or Starburst, pattern attributed to Federal Glass, with long pressed rays sweeping outward from the circular center into a softly ruffled flower-like rim.

The clear glass has been given an iridescent finish that changes dramatically with its surroundings and the light — warm amber and gold through the center, moving into flashes of rose, violet, blue and aqua along the radiating ribs and edge. Rather than the dense molded decoration associated with earlier carnival glass, the beauty here comes from the simplicity of the form: light, color and those wonderfully exaggerated rays.

A lovely piece for a bar, dressing table or collected-glass cabinet, and particularly striking displayed where natural or lamplight can catch the iridescence.

WORTH NOTING

The original source measurement indicated approximately 9 inches; however, the ruler shown in our photographs places the diameter closer to 8 inches. We have therefore listed the more conservative approximate measurement.

The iridescent finish changes considerably according to lighting and viewing angle; photographs are intended to show that natural variation.

MEASUREMENTS

Approximately 8" diameter × 1.75" high.

Measurements are approximate.

CONDITION

Pre-owned vintage condition with age-appropriate surface wear. Please review the photographs closely, particularly the rim, underside and iridescent surface, as they form an important part of the condition description.

FROM THE HOUSE

There is something wonderfully optimistic about mid-century iridescent glass — ordinary light becomes part of the decoration. We chose this one for its wonderful flower-like silhouette and the remarkable wash of color that appears across an otherwise beautifully simple piece.

~ Genevieve