Blenko Amethyst Glass Ball Pitcher with Applied Handle
Blenko · Art & Decor > Art Glass
Era / Decade
Mid-Century Modern, likely 1960s or 1970s. The 'ball pitcher' shape and amethyst color are classic Blenko staples from this era.
Material
Hand-blown glass; solid amethyst color (not a surface coating). High-quality heavy lead-free glass characterized by seeds (air bubbles) and a rough pontil mark on the bottom.
Condition
Good. Visible cloudiness and 'sick glass' (internal mineralization) are present, which appears as a foggy haze. There are no visible chips or cracks in the handle attachment area.
Demand Level
Moderate. Blenko collectors are active, but amethyst is a common color and condition issues like cloudiness deter top-dollar buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (discounted due to visible cloudiness/calcium deposits)
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $85.00 (comparable new hand-blown studio glass)
Comparable Sales
In pristine condition, these sell for $60-$90. In 'cloudy' or 'found' condition, recent eBay solds range from $20 to $35 plus shipping.
Description
Elegant vintage Blenko hand-blown art glass pitcher in a deep amethyst purple. Features a classic bulbous ball body, a wide rim, and a sturdy applied C-shaped handle. This mid-century piece showcases the characteristic organic imperfections of charcoal-fired glass, including small air bubbles trapped within the walls.
Key Features
Highly collectible brand; desirable amethyst color; MCM aesthetic; hand-crafted nature makes every piece unique.
Authenticity Indicators
Applied handle style is consistent with Blenko; the presence of small 'seeds' (bubbles) in the glass; ground pontil mark on bottom (expected for this era). Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant internal cloudiness (mineral deposits from hard water) and surface dust. The haze may require a specialized chemical wash (like CLR or vinegar) to see if it can be restored. Potential 'scuffing' on the base.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (vibe fits vintage decor), eBay (best for glass collectors), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid high shipping risk of breakables).
Selling Tips
Photograph with light passing through the back to show the true purple color. Be extremely transparent about the cloudiness in the listing. Ship doubled-boxed with at least 2 inches of padding between the inner and outer box.