Peloton Glass: Thread-Decorated Bohemian Art Glass
Peloton glass is a distinctive type of late Victorian art glass characterized by randomly applied colored glass threads or filaments pressed into the surface of the vessel during production. Developed in Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic) around 1880, Peloton glass has a unique, tactile quality unlike any other Victorian glass. The colorful threads create a confetti-like effect against the typically white, pastel, or clear glass body, making each piece visually unique.
History and Origin
Peloton glass was first produced by Wilhelm Kralik Sohn at the Eleonorenhain glassworks in Bohemia around 1880. The technique involved rolling a hot glass gather over a marver (flat surface) covered with short lengths of colored glass threads, which adhered to the surface and were then lightly marvered in. The glass was subsequently blown or shaped into the finished form. Other Bohemian glasshouses produced similar wares through the 1890s.
Types and Variations
| Type | Description | Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| White body, multicolor threads | Most common form, pastel threads on opaque white | Common |
| Clear body, colored threads | Transparent body showing threads clearly | Moderate |
| Colored body, contrasting threads | Pink, blue, or amber body with white or colored threads | Scarce |
| Ribbed or molded forms | Swirled ribs or pattern-molded shapes with threads | Scarce |
| Applied decoration | Pieces with additional applied handles, feet, or ruffled rims | Moderate |
| Satin finish | Acid-etched matte surface over threaded decoration | Moderate |
Identification
- The random, short glass threads pressed into the surface are the defining feature
- Threads are typically in combinations of pink, blue, yellow, white, and green
- The body glass is usually opaque white or a pale color
- Most pieces are unmarked; attribution is by style, form, and glass quality
- Not to be confused with "coralene" (applied glass beading) or "spatter" glass (larger colored inclusions)
- The threads should be embedded in the surface, not sitting on top like applied decoration
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small vase, white body, 4-6 inches | $75-$250 |
| Larger vase, ruffled rim, 8-10 inches | $150-$500 |
| Rose bowl, multicolor threads | $100-$300 |
| Cruet with stopper | $200-$600 |
| Pitcher or water jug | $200-$700 |
| Colored body example | $200-$800 |
| Complete table set (sugar, creamer, spooner) | $400-$1,200 |
| Unusual form (epergne, basket with handle) | $300-$1,000 |
Condition Factors
- Glass threads can catch and break off, creating rough spots; examine surfaces carefully
- Ruffled rims and applied handles are vulnerable to chipping
- Satin-finish pieces should have uniform frosting without worn or polished spots
- Stoppers for cruets should be original; replacements are obvious and reduce value
- Interior staining from flower use is common in vases
- The glass body itself is relatively sturdy compared to finer art glass
Collecting Tips
- Peloton glass is moderately priced compared to other Victorian art glass categories, offering good value
- Pieces with colored bodies (not white) are harder to find and bring a premium
- Complete table sets and cruets with original stoppers are the most sought-after forms
- The glass displays beautifully and is instantly recognizable, making it popular with decorative collectors
- Bohemian glass of this period is well-documented; reference books by Truitt and others cover Peloton thoroughly
- Condition matters more than size; a pristine small piece outperforms a damaged large one