| Newsletter #3 | |
Other Newsletters | |
| February, 1999 |
Mrs. Walrath was in the retail and mail order business for over 30 years. The "Love Bouquet" collections, produced exclusively for her by Fenton Glass, are considered by many to be some of the most prestigious Burmese pieces.
The 1982 series consists of 6 pieces: the Basket, Cupped Rose Bowl, Crimped Rose Bowl, Bud Vase, 6" Jack in the Pulpit Vase, and the 10" Jack in the Pulpit Vase . These items were the last blown Burmese pieces produced with the original uranium formula. Consequently, the rich yellow pieces are now the most highly sought after acquisitions and command premium prices. The production aim was for 500 sets, with ultimately only 148 complete sets offered and sold. This was due in part to the desire of many customers to own individual pieces, as well as tremendous number of shipping damages.
In 1986, a special Burmese formula was finally achieved to produce Mrs. Walrath’s 7-pc. Miniature Collection using pressed technology. Thus, Burmese collectors were able to enter onto a new plateau of collecting. A copy of the letter sent to Mrs. Walrath in 1986 by Howard E. Seufer, Quality Control Manager of Fenton, is included with this Newsletter. It describes the breakthrough which made it possible to press Burmese for the first time. This collection consists of the Basket, Petite Bell, Boot, Rosebowl (or Master Salt), Slipper, Toothpick Holder, and Vase . The production aim for this series was 650. For some reason or other, the toothpick holder failed to boast of a rich pink rim that was desired. Nevertheless, it records the pains of a first new-born and remained in the set. However, Mrs. Walrath pulled out 100 pieces and sent them back to Fenton as being less than first quality. Fenton, in turn, insisted that they were first quality. "Then you sell them in your shop," was her response. For some unexplainable reason, her other exclusive pieces were also sold in the Gift shop.
Both -- the 1982 and the 1986 pieces -- are featured in the "Fenton Glass - Decade of the 80's " book. The publication of this book now enables newer collectors especially, to start with 1980 collections and challenge themselves to own as much of this history as possible (with an easier-to-find effort and more affordable prices to pay if they don't wait too long).
Finally, in 1996, when Mrs. Walrath was determined to fully retire, her sentiments were emotionally knitted to her family, loved ones, and her very special and loyal customers. So, rather than retire with a blunt exit, she aimed to leave memories, a "Thank You", and another addition to the Burmese history. This is how and why Mrs. Walrath named this collection her "FAREWELL" Burmese collection. This 1996 collection consists of only 3 pieces. The BASKET is the same style as the 2932UL - 8" Butterfly Basket Fenton produced as a special in1995. The PITCHER is the same style as the 1994 Connoisseur Lattice Rose, and finally, the CAT which will appeal to all collectors. The bottom of every piece reads: "LOVE BOUQUET - Produced exclusively for Mary C. Walrath - 1996" and is sequentially numbered as No. ___ of 150. The artwork on the back of the pitcher and the basket is as fully hand-painted as it is on the front. Circumstances now being what they are, I know that only the collectors who will not waste a minute, will still be able to own the complete collection and the few remaining individual pieces
In summary, I wish to call attention to the following groups of collectors:
I sincerely hope you enjoy these in-depth monthly newsletters as much as I enjoy compiling the information for you. Please stop back and see next months letter or click on the link above to see the previous issues. Also, feel free to drop us a line here at The World of Glass Exclusives, Etc., if there is a topic you would like us to consider for a future issue. Until next time, Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Barb Colligan, President
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