L.E. Smith Glass Persimmon Bittersweet Swung Vase
L.E. Smith Glass Company · Art & Decor > Collectible Glassware
Era / Decade
1960s (Mid-Century Modern). Dating cues include the 'Bittersweet' vibrant orange/red color and the characteristic hand-drawn swung style popular during this era.
Material
Cadium/Selenium glass (often glows under UV light), hand-pulled 'swung' art glass with a pedestal rib-base construction.
Condition
Excellent. The glass appears vibrant with no visible cracks or clouding. The 'points' at the top seem intact, which is critical for value.
Demand Level
Hot. Viking and L.E. Smith swung vases are currently among the most sought-after vintage glass items due to the MCM revival and 'maximalist' decor trends.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$125.00 - $250.00. Value depends heavily on height; vases over 15 inches command higher prices.
Estimated Retail Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (Original 1960s price adjusted for inflation would be roughly $60-$80).
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show L.E. Smith Bittersweet vases ranging from $140 for standard sizes to over $350 for 'Floor Vases' exceeding 20 inches.
Description
Vibrant Mid-Century Modern L.E. Smith swung vase in the iconic 'Bittersweet' (Persimmon) colorway. Features a ribbed pedestal foot and a hand-pulled, asymmetrical mouth with dramatic stretching. The color gradients from a deep orange-red at the center to a translucent amber at the base and tips.
Key Features
Highly collectible Mid-Century Modern aesthetic; iconic L.E. Smith 'Bittersweet' color; impressive vertical scale; hand-crafted nature makes every piece unique.
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive ribbed base pattern specific to L.E. Smith; hand-pulled irregular tips; pontil mark or smooth fire-polished base. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Potential flea bites or small chips on the delicate top points (common in swung glass); mineral deposits/water rings inside the base if used for flowers; possible scratches on the bottom of the foot.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy for the highest reach to glass collectors. Facebook Marketplace for a quick local sale to avoid high-risk shipping.
Selling Tips
Measure the height exactly from base to the tallest tip—height is the #1 price driver. Use the keyword 'Bittersweet' and 'MCM'. Double-box with at least 3 inches of bubble wrap; these are extremely fragile during transit.