Luster Art Glass: Iridescent Blown Glass in the Tiffany Tradition
Luster Art Glass is a term used broadly to describe iridescent blown glass produced in the Art Nouveau style, particularly referencing the products of several American glass houses that competed with Tiffany Studios during the early 20th century. More specifically, "Luster Art Glass" was used as a brand or trade name by some lesser-known workshops. The iridescent surface effect, achieved by exposing hot glass to metallic vapors in the glory hole, gives these pieces their characteristic shimmering, rainbow-like finish.
Identification and Makers
Major producers of iridescent art glass in the luster tradition include:
- Tiffany Studios/Tiffany Furnaces: The premier American maker; Favrile glass with signatures "L.C.T.," "L.C. Tiffany," or "Tiffany Favrile"
- Quezal Art Glass: Founded by former Tiffany workers Martin Bach and Thomas Johnson in Brooklyn, 1901-1925; signed "Quezal"
- Steuben Glass Works: Frederick Carder's Aurene line in gold and blue iridescence; marked "Steuben" or "Aurene"
- Durand Art Glass: Vineland, New Jersey, 1924-1931; marked with a "V" or "Durand"
- Union Glass Company (Kew Blas): Somerville, Massachusetts; marked "Kew Blas"
- Imperial Glass (Free Hand): Bellaire, Ohio; limited art glass production in the 1920s
- Lustre Art Glass Company: A small New York operation producing shades and small vessels in the Tiffany style
Types and Decorative Techniques
- Plain iridescent: Gold, blue, green, or multicolored metallic iridescence on blown forms
- Pulled feather: Combed decoration creating feather patterns (Quezal, Durand)
- King Tut: Coiled thread decoration resembling Egyptian motifs (Durand's signature)
- Paperweight style: Embedded floral decoration within clear glass (Tiffany)
- Jack-in-the-pulpit forms: Tall vases with flared, asymmetric rims
- Lamp shades: Iridescent glass shades for electric and gas fixtures
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Tiffany Favrile vases (important) | $5,000 - $100,000+ |
| Tiffany Favrile vases (standard) | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Steuben Aurene vases | $500 - $5,000 |
| Quezal vases and shades | $300 - $3,000 |
| Durand art glass | $300 - $4,000 |
| Kew Blas vases | $200 - $1,500 |
| Lustre Art Glass shades | $50 - $300 |
| Unsigned iridescent art glass | $50 - $500 |
Condition Factors
Iridescent surfaces are integral to the glass and generally durable, but harsh cleaning (especially alkaline detergents) can damage or dull the iridescence. Scratches that penetrate the iridescent layer are visible and reduce value. Chips to rims and bases are the primary damage concern. Signatures should be verified under magnification, as the value difference between signed and unsigned pieces can be substantial. For lamp shades, check the fitter rim for chips and ensure the shade sits properly. Interior water stains or mineral deposits inside vases can cloud the glass and should be carefully evaluated. Pontil marks on the base are expected and appropriate for hand-blown glass.
Collecting Tips
Tiffany Favrile remains the gold standard of American iridescent art glass, but the secondary makers offer remarkable quality at more accessible prices. Quezal, founded by ex-Tiffany workers, produced pulled-feather decoration that equals Tiffany's quality. Durand's King Tut pattern is one of the most distinctive and recognizable Art Deco glass designs. Steuben Aurene provides museum-quality iridescence with the Steuben name recognition. When collecting iridescent art glass, always buy signed pieces when possible, as signatures establish maker and add 50-200% to value. Handle pieces in natural light to evaluate the quality of iridescence, which varies greatly between examples. Build knowledge by visiting museum collections (Corning Museum of Glass, Chrysler Museum) where all the major makers are represented. The field rewards the educated eye, as unsigned pieces by known makers occasionally surface at general auctions at bargain prices.