What is it?A 15-inch high Le Verre...
What is it?
A 15-inch high Le Verre Francais vase in a shell motif with traces of orange and maroon in the background.
What’s its history?
Le Verre Francais was produced during the 1920s by brothers Ernest and Charles Schneider at Epinay-sur-Seine in France. Ernest worked the books, and Charles was the artistic designer who had worked for art glassmakers Daum and Galle. Charles’ son, Robert, assumed art direction in 1948. The company moved to Loris in 1962. Although the company made tableware, stained glass and lighting fixtures, it’s best known for its art glass.
What’s the legend?
This vase was given to Frances Evans in the early 1930s by her aunt, who worked as a nanny for a wealthy California family that traveled extensively in Europe. The aunt retrieved the vase from the trash and gave it to Evans in exchange for baby-sitting. It has been in the family since then, but no one knew its value.
How was it made?
It was a commercial art glass in the cameo style composed of layered glass with the designs engraved by acid. Favored motifs were leaves and flowers or geometric patterns. It was marked with the name in script or with an inlaid filigree.
Why is it popular?
This style of glass regained its popularity recently because of a renewed interest in art nouveau pieces, says John Jacob-Schram of Corona del Mar, a professional antique appraiser specializing in fine and decorative arts.
What is it worth today?
Jacob-Schram estimates that its value is between $1,400 and $1,600. “[On] Jan. 18, 1997, Skinners in Boston sold a 15-inch vase for $1,495. The piece was signed Charcler/Le Verre,” he says.
Where can I find it?
Fine antique stores may have a piece or two. They’re harder to find now because of the interest in Arts and Crafts and art nouveau styles of decorating.
Where can I find out more?
Books on antique glass may devote a section to Le Verre. Jacob-Schram suggests consulting catalogs from auction houses such as Skinners of Boston, Treadway Galleries of Cincinnati and Butterfield’s in Los Angeles for current prices.