Collecting Blue Depression Glass

DEPRESSION GLASS "MODERNTONE"COBALT BLUE SHERBET DISHES US $26.45 (7 Bids) Auction Ends: End Date: Friday Sep-03-2010 19:07:12 PDT Add to watch list

DEPRESSION GLASS "MODERNTONE"COBALT BLUE CUPS & SAUCERS US $9.95 (2 Bids) Auction Ends: End Date: Friday Sep-03-2010 19:07:27 PDT Add to watch list

When collectors of of glass are asked what attracted them to begin the hobby, many people respond with three words: blue Depression glass. Many blue Depression glass patterns were manufactured between 1920 and 1940. Some were light blue like the Laced Edge “Katy” pattern manufactured by the Imperial Glass Company. Other pieces were made in the cobalt blue most popular with consumers.

One of the most sought after of the blue Depression glass patterns is the Royal Lace, manufactured by the Hazel Atlas Company. Although not originally made in blue, the color was an economic decision to avoid waste and became an instant favorite.  Featuring twenty-eight different pieces, it remains one of the most valuable of all Depression glass patterns.

Today, we may be content to use simple serving pieces, but in those days, every item of food was served on a specific dish. Each meal was a feast to the eyes, even when food was scarce.

Hazel Atlas also produced the popular Sportsman Series. These were pieces decorated with decals of sailboats, Spanish dancers, fish, horses, dogs, and a number of sports. Rather than complete dinnerware patterns, these were casual sets.

And for those of you who grew up with Shirley Temple, there is an Atlas pattern for a child’s set of tableware imprinted with a picture of Shirley. During the depression, the Shirley Temple mug, bowl and matching pitcher were available with a soap purchase.

Other popular blue Depression glass patterns from Hazel Atlas are the Moderntone with its circles around the glass and the Aurora with its vertical lines. Both patterns were made in popular cobalt blue, have clean, modern looking lines and a number of table settings, so they are a little easier to find.

Unlike some collectibles, Depression glass becomes more popular and thus more costly when there are enough pattern pieces available. If you were to collect a pattern such as Aunt Polly, which was made by the U.S. Glass Company, there are no cups or saucers to be found, making the pattern less attractive to collectors.

Since the rims of bowls and plates are easily damaged when stacked together, try placing a paper plate between each piece to keep your collection in mint condition. If you prefer to display your glass, try placing cobalt blue in a window or set a table with your favorite pattern and shade of blue Depression glass. It’s sure to cheer you as it did so many people in the past.