Collecting Cubist Glass: A Vintage Treasure at Savile Studio and Market
Indiana Glass in Avocado Green!
If the bright and cheery hues of Cubist glass, one of the most popular designs made by the Jeannette Glass Company, feel familiar, it’s because they come from the same era as Depression glass—one of the most collected types of vintage glass today.
What makes Cubist glass so special is its angular, geometric pattern of offset squares, creating the illusion of tiny cubes sparkling across each piece. This modern look set it apart from the more ornate, floral styles that dominated household glassware in the 1930s.
A Brief History of Cubist Glass
The Jeannette Glass Company (formerly the Jeannette Bottle Works Company) was founded in 1887 in Pennsylvania. Long before it became known for collectible glassware, the company specialized in bottles, medicine jars, and even car headlights.
When the Great Depression arrived, Jeannette—like many glassmakers—pivoted. By producing affordable but stylish glassware, it found its way onto the tabletops of budget-conscious households. Cubist glass, produced between 1929 and 1933, became one of its most iconic designs.
How to Identify Cubist Glass
Unlike most Depression glass patterns, Cubist glass featured patterned rims as well as geometric cube-like textures. It was designed as a more affordable alternative to Fostoria American crystal, which it closely resembled.
Cubist glass: Less polished, with two mold lines.
Fostoria American crystal: Smooth, clear, with three mold lines.
Another difference: Fostoria was usually produced in clear crystal, while Cubist glass was made in a variety of colours including amber, yellow, blue, green, pink, red, ultramarine, milk glass, and crystal. Some pieces were marked with the letter “J,” often enclosed in a box or triangle.
Collecting Cubist Glass Today
The value of Cubist glass depends on size, colour, and condition. Prices typically range from $50 to $250, with rarer colours and intact lids commanding higher prices. Because patterned rims were prone to chipping, finding well-preserved examples is always exciting for collectors.
Savile Studio and Market: A Place for Collectors
At Savile Studio and Market in Toronto, we love sourcing and sharing pieces with rich stories like Cubist glass. Our curated vintage finds are chosen for their history, beauty, and ability to spark conversation in your home.
If you’re passionate about vintage glassware, collectible pottery, or rare decorative finds, Savile is the perfect place to discover treasures with character. However, items like this move quickly! And they are getting harder and harder to find.
Explore our collection in-store or visit us at Savile Studio and Market to see what rare vintage pieces we’ve found lately.