Heisey Glass Bowl with Silver Overlay Lovebirds – Vintage American Art Glass Bonbon Dish – 8" Bird Motif Bowl
This elegant vintage glass bowl was produced by the A. H. Heisey & Company of Newark, Ohio, one of the most respected American glass manufacturers of the early twentieth century. The bowl features a beautiful silver overlay decoration of songbirds perched among flowering branches, a romantic naturalistic motif popular during the late Edwardian and early Art Deco period.
Heisey produced the glass blanks, while the silver decoration was applied by an independent American silver overlay firm, as Heisey did not have its own silver plating facilities. Many American silver companies decorated Heisey glass during the 1910s and 1920s.
The bowl has a wide circular form with a gently downturned rim and a recessed centre well, giving it an elegant profile suitable for display or serving. The base features a cut starburst pattern, which catches the light nicely and reflects the quality of Heisey glass production.
The repeating lovebird motif around the rim adds charm and makes this an attractive decorative piece for collectors of American art glass.
Pieces like this were commonly used as bonbon or candy dishes on sideboards or tea tables.
Material
Pressed clear glass with silver overlay
Maker
A. H. Heisey & Company, Newark, Ohio
Date
Circa 1915–1928
Measurements
Diameter: 8 inches
Height: approximately 2 1/2 inches
Centre well diameter: 3 1/2 inches
Condition
The bowl is in very good condition. The glass is clean and clear with no chips or cracks. There are light surface scratches on the underside consistent with normal shelf contact over time. The silver overlay remains intact with only minor age-related wear.
Historical Notes
Heisey glass blanks were often decorated by outside silver overlay companies during the early twentieth century. Firms such as Rockwell Silver Company and other American silver houses produced intricate overlays using thin sheets of silver applied to glass surfaces. The bird-and-floral motif on this bowl reflects the lingering influence of Art Nouveau naturalism transitioning into early Art Deco design.