Mid-Century Modern Gold Leaf Starburst Hurricane Vase
Unbranded (Attributed to Libbey or Culver Ltd) · Art & Decor > Vases
Era / Decade
1960s (Mid-Century Modern era). The atomic starburst/sunburst motif and the use of 22k gold leaf frosting are classic indicators of that period.
Material
Clear glass with 22k gold leaf application (likely high-fired). The glass is machine-blown into a hurricane flare shape.
Condition
Good. There is visible wear to the gold trim on the top rim and some light fading on the central starburst patterns. No visible chips or cracks are evident in the photo, but the gilding loss is a common age-related defect.
Demand Level
Moderate. While MCM is always popular, unbranded glassware with condition issues on the gilding moves slower than pristine, branded pieces like Culver.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $35.00
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (comparable high-end vintage style today)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded gold starburst vases typically sell for $18-$25 plus shipping on eBay. Branded Culver pieces in this shape can fetch $40+ if the gold is pristine.
Description
Stunning vintage Mid-Century Modern hurricane-style glass vase featuring a bold atomic starburst/sunburst pattern in metallic gold. The vase has an elegant flared rim and a weighted base, both accented with gold bands. Standing approximately 8-9 inches tall, this piece encapsulates the glamorous cocktail-culture aesthetic of the 1960s. Perfect for MCM collectors or as a statement piece in a Hollywood Regency or Atomic decor setting.
Key Features
Atomic/Starburst motif (very popular in MCM decor), hurricane flare shape, 22k gold leaf accents, authentic vintage patina, fits the 'Grandmillennial' or 'Mid-Century' home trends.
Authenticity Indicators
The weight of the glass and the specific style of the gold application are consistent with Libbey or Culver glassware from the 1960s. There are no maker's marks, which was common for these mass-produced decorative giftware items. Confidence: Medium-High.
Flaws to Note
Significant wear to the gold gilding on the top rim and bottom base band. Minor scratching on the glass surface and some thinning of the gold on the decorative medallion patterns. These are permanent signs of age.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for reaching global MCM collectors), or Facebook Marketplace/Local Vintage Markets (best to avoid shipping risks).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Atomic', 'MCM', 'Starburst', 'Gold Leaf', and 'Hollywood Regency'. Photograph against a solid dark background to make the gold pop. Mention the gilding wear clearly to avoid returns. Ship with double-boxing to ensure it doesn't break.