Collecting Fenton Milk Glass
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Fenton Milk Glass pieces are stunning collectibles. Its often difficult to know which to purchase from the collection, but here we give you a brief guide to the history and explain some of the allure that accompanies Fenton Milk glass.
The Fenton Art Glass company was started in 1905 by the Fenton brothers Frank and John, and to this day remains a family concern – now on its fourth generation.
Milk glass was first used circa 1840 by the Victorians. At that time it was generally seen as an inexpensive alternative to porcelain, although that view has changed dramatically since. By the 1900’s, the image of milk glass had become a lot more popular, and was used in abundance to produce everything from ordinary storage jars to exquisite candelabra.
The popularity of Fenton milk glass comes from the fact that the milky glass refuses to clash with any color scheme – and can therefore be used to fit into the décor of any room.
Fenton Milk Glass quickly became a prolific line for the company since its first production in the 1930s. It was the emergence of Fenton Milk Glass that propelled them onto the world stage, and cemented their place at the glass makers top table.
By the 1950s, Fenton milk glass had become the “color of choice”, and Fenton started producing it in abundance. In the 1956 Fenton catalog, for example, around 50% was Fenton milk glass, with the first three pages dedicated to Fenton milk glass hobnail. This catalog also featured the Fenton milk glass footed cake plate which was to become their all-time best seller.
When collecting Fenton milk glass, consider the following tips from the experts:
• Always choose colors that you like. The wide range of colors in the Fenton milk glass collection can sometimes be a bit daunting – rather than have one of every color, try and stick to a collection that you particularly favor.
• Choose aesthetically pleasing pieces. Although many people will argue that Fenton milk glass pieces that are still in the original packaging are of a higher value, no-one can see them if they are inside a box! These pieces are designed to be seen!
• Choose a pattern and color that you like that is within your budget. Some of the colors (for example the black crest in the crest collection) are rarer than others – try and find the pattern you like that you can afford.
• Always look for the best deal. When you begin collecting Fenton milk glass its often really tempting to just buy the cheapest, but keep a watchful eye out for the really good deals – they are out there.
The most important thing to remember when collecting Fenton milk glass is to always collect what you love – there are literally hundreds of pieces available – a quick glance at any online auction site, for example, will throw up a wide variety of pieces. Not all pieces will be perfect for you, however. Good luck, and happy hunting!
