L.G. Wright: Reproduction Glass from New Martinsville, West Virginia
L.G. Wright Glass Company was a wholesale glass distributor and reissuer based in New Martinsville, West Virginia, founded by Lawrence Gale "Si" Wright in 1937 and operating until 1999. Wright did not manufacture glass himself but contracted with other factories, including Fenton, Fostoria, Westmoreland, and Viking, to produce glass from antique molds he had acquired from defunct companies. His reproductions of popular Victorian, Early American Pattern Glass, and carnival glass forms have created both opportunities and challenges for collectors.
Identification
L.G. Wright glass is notoriously difficult to identify because it was intentionally produced to replicate antique patterns, and Wright rarely marked his products. Key identification methods:
- "W" mark or "LG" mark: Used inconsistently; many pieces are unmarked
- Color: Wright produced patterns in colors not made by the original factory, which is sometimes the easiest identification method
- Glass quality: Slightly different texture, weight, or color saturation compared to originals
- Mold marks: Some acquired molds show slightly different seam lines or minor mold modifications from the originals
- Known reproduced patterns: Daisy and Button, Moss Rose, Moon and Star, Wild Rose, Cherry, Paneled Grape, and many others
Major Reproduced Patterns and Types
- Moon and Star: One of Wright's most prolific lines, made in numerous colors and forms
- Daisy and Button: Classic pattern produced in various colors including amberina, blue, and amber
- Cherry pattern: Covered compotes, pitchers, and table sets
- Eyewinker: Reproduced from the original Dalzell, Gilmore & Leighton molds
- Paneled Grape: Table and decorative ware
- Carnival glass reproductions: Iridescent glass in various patterns from acquired molds
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Moon and Star large pieces (ruby, amber) | $30 - $150 |
| Daisy and Button items | $15 - $75 |
| Carnival glass reproductions | $10 - $60 |
| Cherry pattern covered pieces | $20 - $80 |
| Colored glass lamps | $50 - $200 |
| Rare colors or large forms | $50 - $250 |
| Common small items | $5 - $25 |
Condition Factors
As mid-to-late 20th century production, L.G. Wright glass is generally in good condition when found. Chips to the rim and base are the most common issues. Color consistency and quality varies between production runs and between the different factories that produced for Wright. Carnival glass iridescence should be even and well-developed. Pieces with strong, rich coloring are preferred over pale or muddy examples. Because Wright glass is unmarked, condition issues that might suggest age (such as roughness at the mold seams) can actually indicate a genuine antique rather than a Wright reproduction.
Collecting Tips
Understanding L.G. Wright production is essential for any collector of American pattern glass, carnival glass, or Victorian glass, because Wright reproductions are frequently misidentified as genuine antiques. Study published references by William Heacock and others that document Wright's production to avoid purchasing reproductions at antique prices. Conversely, Wright glass has developed its own collector following, with certain colors and forms becoming collectible in their own right. Moon and Star in particular has a dedicated collector base. The company's closure in 1999 means production is finite, and better examples are slowly appreciating. At current prices, Wright glass offers affordable, decorative colored glassware that brightens any table or display.