Sowerby UK English Hobstar Marigold Boat Shaped Dish

This is an unusual and fairly scarce Sowerby item, quite unlike the rest of their Carnival output. Just over six inches long, it was listed in the 1933 Sowerby catalogue as item no. 2480 and described as an incurved oval Boat. The boat shape is achieved by one end, the prow being formed slightly higher than the other which forms the stern. My example has slightly incurving sides; the catalogue entry indicates that it was also "made straight" but I've yet to see an example with straight sides. It has only been found in Marigold.

What sets this apart is its simple geometric design and the brilliance of its iridescent finish. The design is of very stylised hobstars and crossed spear shapes beautifully fitted to the oval shape. The intaglio near cut shapes have distinctive softness, as does the serrated edge around the top of the piece. The iridescence seems to flow over the surface of the piece and is so shiny it looks wet. It reflects a multitude of colours: gold, hot pinks, blue and green. Both the design and quality of finish remind me of the products from other European makers, particularly Inwald and Riihimaki. The glass is fairly thick, and in common with many Sowerby items the base has been ground flat.

This item is sometimes found fitted with an aftermarket, polished metal, handled basket with leaves and stems. Personally I think it's a great shame to hide the brilliant iridescence with this, and I am thankful that my example never appears to have been fitted with one, (I bought the example I'm showing here separately), because I think the sharp edged metal leaves would inevitably damage the iridescent surfaces of the glass.

The David Richards Collection, Cumbria, UK