Is this a Fenton Vase or just a replica?

Description

This is a pink, ruffled-edge vase with vertical ridges, made of transparent glass. It has small air bubbles and one visible black fleck inside the glass. No visible maker's mark has been identified on the piece.

Is It a Fenton Vase?

Fenton Art Glass is a renowned American glass manufacturer that produced decorative glassware from 1905 until 2011. Many Fenton pieces have distinguishing characteristics, but there are a few points to evaluate here:

1. Markings:
   • Most Fenton glass made after 1971 has a raised "Fenton" logo mark on the bottom of the piece. Earlier pieces (pre-1971) were often unmarked.
   • The absence of a mark suggests it could be either a pre-1971 piece or a piece made by another manufacturer.
2. Air Bubbles and Black Flecks:
   • While Fenton’s quality control was generally high, minor flaws such as small air bubbles were not uncommon, especially in older pieces.
   • However, visible black flecks might suggest it is not Fenton, as this type of imperfection is less typical for their production standards.
3. Design Features:
   • The vase's ruffled top and vertical ridges are consistent with Fenton’s style, particularly their "Cranberry Glass" or similar pink glass designs.
   • The lack of a distinct Fenton pattern match from catalog examples raises doubts.
4. Finish:
   • The sheen and craftsmanship in the photographs appear high-quality, which aligns with Fenton, but the black fleck and absence of a mark make identification inconclusive.

History and Manufacturer

• Possibly Fenton:
  • The vase shares characteristics with Fenton designs, including the ruffled top and ridges. If it is Fenton, it may be a pre-1971 piece, as those were unmarked.
• Other Makers:
  • Similar designs were also produced by other glassmakers in the mid-20th century, including Kanawha Glass L.E. Smith, which makes definitive attribution to Fenton more challenging without expert examination.

Condition

• Good condition overall:
  • Minor flaws include small air bubbles and one black fleck inside the glass, which may slightly affect its value.

Estimated Value

• If authentic Fenton:
  • $50–$100, depending on the exact pattern and age.
• If not Fenton:
  • $20–$40, based on comparable decorative glass vases from lesser-known manufacturers.

Next Steps

To confirm authenticity and value:

1. Seek a Professional Appraisal:
   • A glassware expert or auction house specializing in American art glass can provide definitive identification.
   • Provide additional photos, especially of the base, under different lighting to reveal potential faint marks or telltale characteristics.
2. Research Patterns:
   • Consult Fenton pattern catalogs or online databases to try and match the design more closely.
3. UV Light Test:
   • Fenton’s Cranberry Glass sometimes fluoresces under blacklight due to manganese in the glass. Testing this could add more clues.

Conclusion

This vase may be a Fenton piece, particularly an unmarked pre-1971 example, but the evidence is inconclusive. A professional in-person appraisal is recommended to determine its authenticity and precise value. If confirmed as Fenton, its value will likely align with similar pieces from the era.