Opaline Basket, Victorian Blue Glass with Applied Thorn Handle

This Blue opaline basket shows everything collectors love about Victorian decorative glass. The soft blue opaline body catches the light gently, while the frilled edge adds movement and visual interest. Because the basket form remains both decorative and practical, this piece works beautifully as a display item and as a functional dish.

The applied clear glass thorn handle rises cleanly from the rim, and because it was shaped by hand, it adds character and individuality. The rough pontil scar on the base, clearly visible in the images provided, confirms hand blown manufacture, and therefore places this opaline basket firmly within the Victorian period. As a result, you get an authentic example rather than a later reproduction.

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Details of the Opaline Basket

• Item type, Opaline basket shaped glass dish
• Material, Opaline blue glass
• Handle, Applied clear glass thorn handle
• Edge, Frilled rim
• Base, Rough pontil scar
• Era, Victorian
• Technique, Hand blown

Because opaline glass remained fashionable throughout the nineteenth century, pieces like this basket often appeared in parlours, dressing tables and sideboards. Consequently, they continue to suit both traditional and modern interiors today.

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Condition of the Opaline Basket

This opaline basket remains in very good antique condition. The glass retains its soft colour and clean surface, and the handle sits securely in place. There are no cracks, and there are no repairs. However, because this is a genuine Victorian hand blown item, lage related marks and wear may be present as expected in glass of this age, and adds to its authenticity and unique charm.

Please study all photographs carefully before purchasing, since they show the exact opaline basket you will receive, including the pontil scar and applied handle details.

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Collectability of the Opaline Basket

Victorian opaline glass continues to attract collectors because it combines elegance with skilled craftsmanship. This opaline basket appeals particularly to those who enjoy hand blown glass, applied decoration and practical forms. Furthermore, basket shapes with thorn handles remain harder to find than standard bowls or dishes.

Because this piece offers colour, texture and confirmed hand blown production, it sits comfortably alongside other items in our antique glass collection, where period glass continues to perform strongly with collectors.

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How to Display and Use.

You can use this beautiful Blue glass dish in several ways. It works well as a jewellery or trinket dish on a dressing table. It also suits sweets or wrapped treats on a sideboard. Alternatively, it stands alone as a decorative accent where light can pass through the glass and highlight the opaline colour and frilled rim.

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Victorian Opaline Glass Context

Opaline glass became especially popular during the Victorian period due to its soft colour, elegant appearance and association with refined interiors. Museums continue to document and study these decorative wares, including baskets with applied handles and pontil bases.

You can explore more about Victorian glass production and decorative techniques via the Victoria and Albert Museum’s glass collection:
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Before You Order

Please take a moment to:

• View all images carefully
• Check scale and proportions
• Remember that antique glass may show light tool marks
• Feel free to contact us with any questions before purchase

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Summary of the Opaline Basket

This opaline basket offers a beautiful example of Victorian hand blown glass with an applied thorn handle and frilled edge. The rough pontil scar, clearly shown in the images, confirms its age and method of production. Decorative, practical and increasingly collectable, it brings soft colour and period charm to any interior.