|
 I never
intended to write an article on Fenton contemporary glassware,
but an abundance of information simply fell into my lap. With
published reports of Fenton Glass ceasing operations
circulating, my motivation for visiting the Fenton factory one
more time steadily increased this past summer. Many years ago, I
made a “final visit” to the Imperial Glass factory before it
closed its doors and the memories, still vivid, linger with me
today.
First on my planned summer vacation agenda was to inspect the
Fenton website, looking for hours of operation and glass factory
tour information. I easily obtained the information, but I
stumbled across something more on the Fenton website. I read
that Fenton glass, approximately 200 pieces belonging to Frank
M. Fenton was to be sold at auction in Williamstown, West
Virginia. A quick review of the Fenton auction brochure
presented potential bidders with a unique collection of Fenton
whimsies, art glass, rarities and other highly collectible
pieces. Many of the glass items were once displayed in Frank
Fenton’s office. I never made it to the Fenton factory for a
short visit, nor did I attend the auction, but apparently the
quality and artistic nature of the Fenton glass was shared by
many as none of my mail bids were successful.
Click images below for larger
versions.
The red Fenton Gone with the Wind lamp is Fenton
circa 1971.
I read with interest that several art glass pieces to be
auctioned off were from the Barber era. I wasn’t quite sure what
this meant or implied, so off to my carnival library I went
seeking an answer. In the book, “Fenton Glass- The Third
Twenty-Five Years” I learned that Robert Barber was a glass
artisan employed at Fenton during the mid 1970’s. He produced a
wide assortment of limited edition, highly artistic glassware
products. The quality and eye appeal of Barber limited edition
pieces is impressive.
The tortoise ring tree carnival novelty is from
the 1970's.
Purchased by the author from Rose Presznick.
With Fenton Closing, Will Demand for Fenton Glassware
Increase?
Though we typically use the expression contemporary carnival to
describe all glassware produced from the 1960’s forward
including Fenton pieces, we should pause and reflect that this
“contemporary glassware” is now 30 to 40 years old. While the
molds might still be around, the factories are not. I hesitate
advocating the indiscriminate purchase of contemporary glassware
outright, simply because so much of it exists. EBay for example
has 7,237 Fenton pieces for sale as of 20 September 2007. No
shortage in my book. Several Fenton patterns and specialty items
possess a strong collector following. Collectors will sort out
over time as to what is a prized Fenton collectable and what is
not.
The Marigold Fenton Peacock Tail candy ribbon
bowl is a one of a kind whimsey circa 1911.
Purchased by the author from John and Jeanette Rogers.
What happens to contemporary Fenton glass products over time
in pricing no one can really say. Unquestionably what remains
though is a piece of American history, a legacy of specialized
glassware production that spanned an entire century. Fenton has
just passed us by like a slow moving train. I rode on the train.
I enjoyed the ride, the view and the memories. I hope you did
too. Good Hunting.
Author’s note: At the time of this writing, rumors and second
hand information is circulating that Fenton may continue after
restructuring efforts. Let us hope so.
Copyright 2007, Gerald Thomas. All Rights
Reserved. |
