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How to Identify Glassware with Stag Marks

The Fenton Glass Company made carnival-style glass items beginning in 1907, which are molded or pressed glass pieces in various colors that have an iridescent effect. The Fenton items included an 8-inch bowl with spatula feet, 9-inch plates with spatula feet, chop plates with ball feet, a ball-footed rosebowl and a 10-inch bowl with ball feet. Called "Stag and Holly" items, these pieces are most easily identified by the image of a stag on them. There are a few other ways to determine genuine Fenton, or "Stag" glassware.

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the stag closely. The eyes should be nearly almond shaped and the mouths have a tongue showing. Note that the stag and holly designs only appear on the inside of the glass piece.
- 2
  Look at the body of the stag. The fur on the stag should appear shaggy and a little uneven. Some replicas have parallel lines on the body of the stag to indicate fur.
- 3
  Look for four sets of holly sprigs on the item. On two of the branches, there will be 1 berry at the bottom with 2 on top. On the other two branches, there will be 2 berries on top and 1 on bottom.
- 4
  Count the berries on the holly. There should be 24 sprigs on the item, while some replica pieces have 21.
- 5
  Look at the feet of the glass piece. The color should be sharp and bright without any spots or mottled effects.
- 6
  Do not buy white Stag &Holly bowls, as Fenton never issued the items in white. Look for glass pieces in green, turquoise, gold and purple, with colors that are iridescent.

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