Vintage Hofbauer Ruby Byrds Lidded Bowl and Matching Vase
This lot comprises a vintage Hofbauer ruby Byrds lidded bowl, often described as a bon bon dish, offered with a matching vase. Both pieces are decorated in the Byrds pattern associated with Hofbauer, a name well regarded among collectors of mid-twentieth-century American pressed glass. The lidded bowl has a domed cover with a knob finial and a fluted, scalloped edge, while the vase rises from a round foot to a ruffled rim. Both pieces feature a richly textured pressed star and diamond ground, with oval panels in a vivid ruby tone. Within these panels, finely etched songbirds perch among stylised foliage, creating a striking contrast between the clear glass and the coloured ground. The lid and bowl also show an iridescent sheen in places, which adds to their decorative appeal.
Condition, Originality and Collector Appeal
From the photograph provided, the pieces appear to be in good overall order, with no obvious chips or cracks visible on the rims, lid or foot. The ruby colour and etched birds appear crisp and well defined, and the iridescent finish retains much of its character. As with any vintage glass, the lot should be examined closely in person, as a single photograph cannot reveal every hairline or surface wear. The matching pair of bowl and vase is a particular draw for collectors, as pieces from this pattern are sought after as sets for display in a cabinet or on a sideboard. Their combination of ruby colour, etched bird motifs and intricate pressing makes them an appealing choice for collectors of Hofbauer glass and vintage American pressed glassware alike.