We found ourselves at an odd antique/craft store last weekend. Odd because each booth was a mash-up of newer craft items and over-priced antiques. Sophia walked away with a couple of stuffed animals (new stuff, not old Steiff) but I was empty-handed.
Until I saw a box of Christmas items on the snow-covered porch. The porch wrapped around the entire building, and was packed with boxes of stuff and things strewn around haphazardly.
These large 1950s cellophane wreaths (they light up!) were on top of the box.
Inside were delicate mercury glass Christmas ornaments just thrown together in a big jumbled mess. I brought the box in to get a price, and started sorting out the ones I wanted. The price the owner quoted me was sort of crazy, considering they had been sitting out there unloved for so long in the ice and snow and bird poop.
I weeded further and finally got a decent price for this lot (and the wreaths):
Even though I paid more than I wanted, I think some of these are really old. Like 1880-Victorian, made-in-Germany old. I'm sure about this wire and tinsel wrapped one.
And these lovely swans.
But I think some of them are even older and rarer. Like this clear glass painted corn on the cob.
And this silvered mercury glass die.
And these clear glass painted strawberries.
I've done a little research but have not found these specific shapes or idea of worth. Are there any vintage Christmas experts out there who can give me some more information? Or point me in the direction of some good research material, even if it's (gasp!) not online?
Maybe I need to bring them in for an appraisal at the mother of all vintage Christmas booths?
I'll have to agree with mydogpetey -- the corn and strawberries are awesome! Good find.
Posted by: Gwen Menz | 23 February 2011 at 10:46 AM
I am jealous! That dice (die?) ornament is my favorite. Mr. Corn on the Cob is in second. You really hit the jackpot!
Posted by: Amanda | 09 February 2011 at 03:50 PM
The berries and the corn are awful sweet!
Posted by: mydogpetey | 08 February 2011 at 11:25 AM
Again, some fun finds, the wreaths are fun! The ornaments are great! Amy
Posted by: Amy Boelter | 07 February 2011 at 05:53 AM
I am no expert but however old they are they are wonderful!
Posted by: Lisa's Creative Home | 06 February 2011 at 09:52 PM