Tuthill: American Brilliant Period Cut Glass

Tuthill Cut Glass Company operated in Middletown, New York, from 1902 to 1923, producing some of the finest cut glass of the American Brilliant Period. Founded by Charles G. Tuthill and his brothers, the company specialized in deeply cut, richly patterned lead crystal using distinctive floral and geometric designs. Tuthill glass is highly regarded among cut glass collectors for its exceptional cutting quality, innovative patterns, and superior metal (glass composition).

History & Production

Charles Tuthill learned the glass cutting trade at other Middletown firms before establishing his own company. The Tuthill factory employed skilled cutters, many of Bohemian descent, who produced pieces of remarkable depth and precision. Unlike many competitors, Tuthill focused on quality over volume and created numerous original patterns. The company ceased production in 1923 as the American Brilliant Period ended and tastes shifted toward lighter, less ornate glassware.

Identification & Marks

Tuthill glass is marked with an acid-etched "TUTHILL" script in a distinctive semi-circle or butterfly shape on the base. Not all pieces were marked, however. Key identification features include:

• Signature patterns: Rex, Vintage (grape and vine), Primrose, Wild Rose, and Rosemere
• Intaglio cutting: Tuthill excelled at intaglio (engraved below the surface) floral designs combined with geometric cutting
• Glass quality: Brilliant lead crystal with exceptional clarity and weight
• Cutting depth: Characteristically deep, precise cutting with sharp edges

Auction Price Ranges

Condition Factors

• Chips: Even small chips on cut glass significantly reduce value; examine all cut edges carefully
• Clarity: Cloudiness, scratches, or sick glass (interior etching from liquid storage) devalues pieces
• Cutting sharpness: Crisp, sharp cutting with defined edges indicates quality and good preservation
• Signature: Signed pieces bring 25-50% premiums over unsigned but attributable examples
• Repairs: Polished-out chips and re-cut areas can be detected under magnification
• Brilliance: The hallmark of fine cut glass; dull pieces have lost their appeal and value

Collecting Tips

• Tuthill's intaglio floral patterns (Vintage, Primrose, Wild Rose) are the most distinctive and sought after
• Signed pieces are strongly preferred; the acid-etched Tuthill mark should be felt as a slight depression
• The combination of intaglio floral and geometric cutting on the same piece is a Tuthill hallmark
• Compare cutting quality carefully; Tuthill's deep, precise work distinguishes it from lesser manufacturers
• Reference Bill Boggess and Louise Boggess's guides to American Brilliant Period glass for pattern identification
• Large, complex pieces (punch bowls, pitchers, large bowls) command the strongest prices
• The American Cut Glass Association (ACGA) publishes research and hosts shows featuring Tuthill glass