RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc Presents: Ask the Appraiser

This week a reader sends the following question and photographs:

 “Good morning, Jon. I inherited this glass vase from my grandparents well over 40 years ago. It is so beautiful when the light illuminates through it. It measures 18 inches in height and is in excellent condition. It has some faint writing on the bottom that I cannot read. My sister’s daughter has expressed an interest in it, but before I give it away, I would like to know more about it. I am glad you write this column each week. I have learned a great deal from reading it. Could you please inform me; how old it is and the value”? 

Rose Mary

Answer: 

 Open the Champagne Rose Mary! The beautiful vase that you are inquiring about is an excellent example of a “Jack-in-the-Pulpit” vase produced during the Art Nouveau period. Now I have some really good news. The marking on the base; “LCT” is for Louis Comfort Tiffany. Yes, that Tiffany! What you possess is a superb and rare “Jack-in-the-Pulpit” flower form Favrile glass vase, circa 1904-1906. Favrile glass was invented by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848-1933), in the late 19th century. This type of iridescent art glass has the actual colors incised within. Louis Tiffany was awarded The Grand Prize for Favrile glass at The Paris Exposition of 1900, which really put Tiffany Studios on the map. The typical size of a Tiffany Faville glass Jack-in-the-Pulpit vase we normally encounter range between 10 – 14 inches in height. Your vase measuring 18 inches in height is rare. Quite rare. Most likely a special order or commission from Tiffany Studios at that time. With respect to art glass, bigger is better. Advanced collectors would want this vase in their collection. Now for the answer you’ve been waiting for; the value. If in fact this item has remained in “excellent condition” as you have indicated, meaning; no chips, cracks or repairs.  The current replacement value for your large Tiffany Studios Jack-in-the-Pulpit Favrile glass vase is $10,000 USD. I understand how fragile this vase is, so please handle this vase with the outmost care. Please understand that one tiny chip or crack will devalue this extraordinary piece of art glass tremendously. Thank you for sharing this item with us.