Fenton Marigold Carnival Glass Bell Ringing Lady (Faerie/Southern Belle Figurative Bell)
Fenton Art Glass · Art & Decor > Glassware & Collectibles
Era / Decade
1970s (Late) to 1980s. Fenton introduced this specific 'Bell Lady' mold in various colors and treatments during this period.
Material
Marigold Carnival Glass (pressed glass with an iridescent metallic oxide coating). Higher quality vintage glass with strong prismatic finish.
Condition
Excellent. Based on the image, the iridescence is vibrant and complete without visible 'scratching' or wear. The edges of the ruffles appear smooth without fleabites.
Demand Level
Moderate. Fenton collectors remain active, though 'Marigold' is a more common colorway than 'Cobalt' or 'Amethyst' iridescent glass.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $35.00 (Low: $18, Mid: $28, High: $40+ if signed or rare color variant)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $60.00 (Adjusted for modern artisanal glass equivalents)
Comparable Sales
Similar Fenton Marigold bells consistently sell between $20 and $34 on eBay and Etsy. Those with the original foil sticker or a signed artist mark can reach the higher end of the $40 range.
Description
This is a beautiful Fenton 'Bell Lady' figurine in Marigold Carnival glass. The piece features a stylized woman in a tiered, ruffled Victorian-style dress holding a smaller bell in her hand. The glass has a stunning orange-gold iridescent finish that reflects purple, pink, and green hues. Standing approximately 3.5 to 4 inches tall, this piece doubles as a functional bell with its glass 'clapper' inside.
Key Features
Highly collectible brand (Fenton); popular 'Marigold' carnival finish; figurative design; functional bell; compact size for display shelves; vintage Americana appeal.
Authenticity Indicators
Fenton items of this era often have an embossed 'Fenton' logo in an oval (sometimes with a number indicating the decade). High confidence in authenticity based on mold detail and traditional carnival finish application.
Flaws to Note
Look for 'fleabites' (tiny chips) along the bottom edge of the ruffled skirt and the hand-held bell. Check the clapper to ensure it is still attached and functional.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for targeted collectors), Etsy (for vintage decor appeal), or Mercari (lower fees and easy shipping).
Selling Tips
Keywords: Fenton, Marigold, Carnival Glass, Iridescent, Bell Lady, Victorian Figurine. Photograph against a dark, solid background to make the iridescent colors 'pop.' Ship in a box and bubble wrap; never ship glass in a padded envelope.