SGS

CAL HACKEMAN, SGS PRESIDENT, AS GUEST EDITOR –HOOKED ON CARNIVAL

JANUARY 18, 2016 PRESENTATION:  STRETCH GLASS – "Crossover" ITEMS

Cal here. Tonight I’d like to share with you some of the stretch glass which we call “crossovers” as well as a few other groups of stretch glass that have “patterns” in them. The crossovers are pieces that are clearly made in molds used for carnival glass.  As such the glass has a pattern in it.  As stretch glass collectors, we look for the ones where the iridescence is stretchy rather than shiny.  I have read that some carnival glass collectors don’t (or didn’t) like the stretchy iridescence – maybe some of you will comment on how you feel about stretchy iridescence on your carnival glass.  The other stretch glass with patterns sometimes shows up with shiny iridescence, so it appears that it was made as both carnival and stretch glass.

In my experience the most often found carnival with stretchy iridescence is Fenton’s Open Work Basket Weave.  There are examples which have great stretchy iridescence and look like true stretch glass.  Fenton’s Stippled Rays is another example which we find with wonderful stretchy iridescence and the same is true with Diamond’s Coin comport which can be found in deep cobalt blue as well as other colors.  The Imperial Plain Jane handled basket is another item which can be found from time to time with stretchy iridescence. 

In American Iridescent Stretch Glass by Madeley & Shetlar  there are 19 examples of “Carnival Glass with Stretch Effect.”  I must admit that I have never seen most of these pieces, so my knowledge of them is limited to the photos and information in ‘the book.’  I’m hoping some of you have examples of Diamond’s “Pony,” “Windflower,” Double Stem Rose” or “Pulled Loops” that you can share with us.  There are also photos of Imperial’s “Grape and Cable,” “Heavy Grape” and “Homestead” as well as several more patterns by Fenton which are known with stretch effect.  Please share your experiences in finding carnival glass with stretch effect. 

In addition to these crossovers, Imperial’s “Chesterfield” and “Floral and Optic” are sought after by both carnival and stretch glass collectors.  Chesterfield in Red is particularly desirable.  A close cousin, Imperial’s “Smooth Panels,” is also a favorite for all of us.  Within stretch glass there are other pressed patterns.  Northwood’s “Tree bark” foot (4, 8 and 12-sided) and their “21 Ribs” are in the same family since the designs are in the mold.  And, of course, Diamond’s “Adam’s Rib” also requires the pattern to be in the mold.  These are all highly desired in stretch glass, notwithstanding the molded designs. 

How many of these “patterns” are in your carnival glass collections?

From: Tony D

To: Cal

Have really enjoyed this week and all your great info on stretch.   Have included pics of another piece of ours. It has the Imperial cross mark and the plate is 12 1/4" across. MJ, my wife and I sort of disagree on the base color. It looks to me like it is purplish and she thinks it has a tangerine color when held up to light. It is probably our favorite piece of stretch glass. Any additional info will be appreciated.

From: Ellen in UK

To: Cal

I'm really enjoying your posts on Stretch Glass. I only have one piece in my collection and it is a piece I bought from an Antique Fair in around 1995. At the time the people who I bought it from only dealt in Carnival glass but they had been at a renowned auction house in London, saw this and bid on it. They had no idea what it was only that it was said to be American.

I only bought Carnival glass but thought it was unusual and wanted to find out more about it so I bought it.

It was a long while after when I bought Fenton's book "The First 25 Years" that I found out what it was as there was an identical piece in the book. It's Fenton's 1/2 pound Ruby Candy Jar. And it's in mint condition.

I realised it was a good buy as these Candy Jars are quite scarce I understand.  I think you mentioned there may be some auctions later on. Please let me know as I would like to put this in one of them.

From: Steve G.

To: Lance and all

It took a while but I realized I have a marigold rose bowl like your topaz one. Was told at one time it was Imperial. It is exactly the same size as yours in width and base and likely about 1/4" shorter but it may be turned in a bit more. I would like to know more about it. I have had it for a long time. Pictures are attached.

From:  Carl B. (Indiana)

To:  Brian, Galen, Cal

Re:  Stretch Glass pieces

We're attaching two pictures of some of our stretch glass pieces. The first is a grouping of Fenton's nut cups and butter pats in various colors.  The second is a group of three rosebowl in marigold with coralene decor, ice blue, and marigold.