The item is a vintage clear glass serving platter in the "Pioneer Fruit" pattern, produced by the Federal Glass Company.
The Federal Glass Company was a prominent American glassware manufacturer founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1900. It was a major producer of affordable, mass-produced glassware for both consumer and commercial markets for nearly 80 years. Initially, the company focused on making items like salt shakers, measuring cups, jars, and tumblers. By the 1920s, it had shifted to automated production and was a well-known name in glassware and barware.
Federal Glass became one of the leading manufacturers of "Depression glass," producing full sets of colourful, machine-pressed tableware in popular patterns like Madrid, Georgian Lovebirds, and Diana. These items were often given away as promotional items with food or other products. In 1958, the company merged with the Federal Paper Board Company and continued to operate as a division. It produced various mid-century modern designs, some featuring 22-karat gold decoration. The company faced increasing competition from foreign imports and was also affected when gas stations stopped offering glassware as customer rewards during the 1970s oil crisis. The company ultimately ceased operations in 1979.
Most Federal Glassware can be identified by its distinctive back stamp: a capital letter "F" enclosed within a shield, typically located on the bottom of the piece.
Today, original Federal Glass items are popular collectibles, sought after for their nostalgic appeal and vintage designs.
This made of clear, heavy-cut pressed glass with a shiny, glossy finish. The central part of the platter has an octagonal section featuring a deeply recessed, or intaglio, embossed design of various fruits and leaves, including grapes and apples. The platter has a distinctive ruffled or saw-tooth edge around the perimeter. It is a round serving piece, typically measuring about 11 to 11.5 inches in diameter.
This pattern was manufactured during the mid-20th century, primarily in the 1950s and 1960s.
The platter is in excellent vintage condition with no damages noted.
Diameter: 28.6 cm
