Antique American Brilliant Cut Glass Nappy, Floral Wheel Cut Handled Bowl, Circa 1900-1915

This beautiful antique cut glass nappy dates to the American Brilliant Period, circa 1900-1915. Made from exceptionally clear, heavy glass, it has the wonderful brilliance and sparkle associated with quality cut glass from this era. The shallow round bowl has a substantial open loop handle and a polished sawtooth edge. Unlike the sharply pointed sawtooth rims often seen on cut glass, the points along this rim are smoothly rounded and polished.

The cutting is especially lovely. Graceful stems sweep across the bowl with deeply cut and polished leaves, while the flowers are worked with very fine individual wheel-cut lines. At the center is a striking six-point star or flower composed of deep polished cuts with groups of fine radiating cuts between the larger points. The combination of deep brilliant cutting and much finer decorative wheel work gives the piece wonderful contrast. Under light, the polished cuts catch and reflect beautifully while the finer cutting gives the floral design its detail.
The glass is bright, crystal clear and unusually heavy for its size.

No maker's signature has been found, and the exact maker and pattern remain unidentified. Although similar cutting techniques were used by several important American cutting houses during the Brilliant Period, We have not found a documented pattern match and will not attribute it to a particular company without one. A beautiful example of American Brilliant Period glass, particularly for anyone who appreciates the craftsmanship involved in hand-cut and wheel-cut decoration.

Condition:
Excellent antique condition. No chips, cracks or scratches noted. The sawtooth rim is intact, and its smooth rounded points are part of the finished edge rather than damage or wear.

Measurements:
6½ inches diameter
8 inches from end of bowl to end of handle
1½ inches high at bowl
3 inches high at handle

History
The American Brilliant Period began in the late 19th century and continued into the years surrounding World War I. American cutters became renowned for working heavy, exceptionally clear leaded glass with deep cuts that were polished to create remarkable brilliance and reflection. The American Cut Glass Association notes that the finest work depended upon skilled hand decoration and that the weight, clarity and sharply cut polished surfaces are among the characteristics associated with Brilliant Period glass. By the early 1900s, cutters were producing an enormous variety of designs, ranging from densely geometric patterns to more open floral and naturalistic decoration. Leading firms employed different cutting techniques within a single design, allowing deep polished cuts to provide brilliance while finer wheel work supplied delicate detail. Libbey, for example, patented its Star and Feather design in 1906, illustrating the continuing experimentation with star and fine-line motifs during this period. The maker and pattern of this particular nappy have not been identified. Its heavy clear glass, brilliant polished cutting, floral decoration and fine wheel work are consistent with American Brilliant Period craftsmanship of the early 20th century.

This would make a great gift for any holiday or special occasion. A great piece to add to your collection.

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