Antique Northwood Carnival GlassGrape and Cable Pitcher Blue Amethyst Iridescent
THE PIECE: Offered for your consideration is a stunning, authentic example of American glass history: the Northwood "Grape & Cable" Water Pitcher. Produced in the early 1910s by the legendary Harry Northwood at his factory in Wheeling, West Virginia, this pattern remains the undisputed King of Carnival Glass.
This is not just a dish; it is a sculpted piece of art that captured the imagination of the Edwardian era and remains the gold standard for collectors today. THE COLOR & IRIDESCENCE: The base glass is a rich, deep Amethyst, but the true value lies in the iridescence. This piece boasts what collectors call "Electric Blue" highlights. When the light hits the embossed grape clusters, you are treated to a shimmering oil-slick palette of cobalt blue, emerald green, and a fiery metallic bronze. Unlike many pieces of this age where the finish has rubbed off or dulled, the "glow" on this pitcher remains vibrant, mirror-like, and consistent from the flared rim all the way down to the footed base. THE PATTERN & CRAFTSMANSHIP: The "Grape & Cable" pattern is a masterclass in high-relief glass pressing. The grape clusters are plump and three-dimensional, surrounded by intricately veined leaves and the signature "cable" banding that defines the pattern.The handle is a heavy, thumbprint-style mold that feels substantial in the hand, and the scalloped "ruffled" spout adds a touch of elegance to the rugged, heavy-walled design. This is the "Master" size, intended to be the centerpiece of a formal water set.
Clarity: The glass is crisp with no "sickness, " clouding, or mineral deposits. There are NO chips, cracks, or "flea bites" on the rim, body, or the delicate footed base-an exceptional find for a piece of this weight and age. Wear: Virtually no surface scratches or shelf wear.It has clearly been cabinet-kept and cherished as a display piece for decades. The Sound: When tapped lightly, it produces a clear, high-frequency ring, confirming the structural integrity of the antique glass.
WHY ADD THIS TO YOUR COLLECTION? For the serious Carnival Glass enthusiast, the "Grape & Cable" pitcher is an essential, foundational centerpiece.
Because of its massive size and the complexity of the mold, these pieces often suffered from manufacturing flaws, "heat checks, " or internal stress lines during the cooling process. To find one in this "Electric" color state with zero damage is becoming increasingly difficult. This is an investment-grade piece that serves as a stunning conversation starter and a true relic of the American "Golden Age" of glass. This pitcher will be Double-Boxed for maximum protection.
Fully insured for the final sale value.