We have had this in our family forever. Some time ago we broke one of the glass bowls. The other bowl and the rest of the set are in good condition. In addition to an opinion as to value, we also would want some advice about polishing. Should we polish before selling? The dimensions are in the photos, but it is roughly 10" across the top, 9" high, and the bases are 6". We know it is silverplate.
It is a family heirloom that we have had longer than anyone can remember (and we are old!).
Hi Paul,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
The loss of the second glass bowl significantly diminishes the value of this set; if both were intact, the pair would be worth $700-1,000.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A pair of Victorian cut glass and silver-plated footed compotes
made by Elkington & Co., Birmingham, England, bearing date mark for 1884-1885
The cut-glass bowl with leaf-and-berry trim, raised on a base with three foliated arms and branch-form standard, on a pierced leaf-and-berry base. Marked underneath.
9 inches high, 10 inches diameter
CONDITION: one compote lacking glass bowl
PROVENANCE: inherited
$300-500*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Polishing this will make it more attractive to sellers but won't add to the value; if you do polish it, take care not to let polish accumulate among the intricate detailing.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you again for using Mearto.
Thanks for confirming, Paul. See my comment above about the marks
I have uploaded a macro image of the marks. I think this is the best I am going to get!
Do you think it would be better to sell the set separately or sell the complete piece and then the other part as a separate sale?
Phenomenal photo! :)
To be honest, most of the value in the estimate is based on the single piece and you may get more selling it separately. The parts may have value as a commodity for their materials.
That is correct...