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Fenton - Horse Chestnut
COMPANIONS of the “HORSE CHESTNUT” Pattern
In deference to the late Don Moore, who along with being an eminent collector “in the early days”, became an avid student and researcher in the area of carnival glass and its many implications. He wrote extensively until his passing in 1991, providing impetus and education to all collectors. His claim to this “Horse Chestnut” tag, was that it seemed easier to remember than “Berry and Leaf Circle” or “Paneled Berry” applied by Bill Edwards. Interestingly, Mrs. Hartung only referred to the design by saying it looked like cherries. Mrs. Presznick, another of the early writers makes no reference to it. Don continues his explanation of the usage this way: “ I do not know just where I picked up this name but suspect it was from Sherman Hand. (another pioneer in CG collecting). The buckeye is the seed of the horse chestnut, so this name tag should have the full support of all you Ohio collectors….O.K. So it does not look like a horse chestnut. Picky, Picky. Since when does the pattern name have to look like the real thing?” …..Fair enough! We go along with that line of thinking, as well!
You folks may be surprised to learn how extensively Fenton used this pattern. Molds have always been expensive. By using the bottom part of the mold, changing only the plunger, or interior portion of the mold, the company was able to produce a wider range of patterns at half the cost. This practice was also followed by Northwood with use of their Basketweave exterior, Millersburg with their Wide Panel and of course Fenton in their use of the Bearded Berry exterior, used almost as often as they used this Horse Chestnut.
Let's take a look now at the specific Fenton patterns where the Horse Chestnut was applied as the exterior design. Of course, they are all the same size. All are on a collar base and may be found either in a bowl or plate shape. When flattened into a plate, they will run about 7 ½”, depending on the depth. Bowls may be anywhere from 6” to 71/4” diam., depending on depth and the type of ruffle used. Some of the bowls will be found in ice cream, or circular shape, again with somewhat of a variance in size.
In case you feel you have been overdosed on Horse Chestnut, you'll be happy to know that we have shared all we know on that subject! (smile) As compared to Northwood, Dugan and Imperial, little has been documented by current day collectors of the Fabulous Fenton array of Carnival Glass. Their ample contribution toward our pleasures and desires are always a joy to discuss. Their plates are flatter than most and display quite nicely. It would be a major undertaking for any author to compile extensive information concentrating on the Fenton “odyssey”. Their history is colorful and extends over more than 100 years of artistry. Fenton Carnival Glass in patterns alone, covers a multitude of subject matter. The dedication of those early craftsmen who created the gorgeous designs from nature and the elements from their surroundings for us to enjoy, deserve our applause! Working with chisel and hammer, the outcome is unequaled by ANY brush and canvas artist. It is a lost art….Keep yourself abreast of re-use of the old molds and a forgery of colors introduced to gullible buyers! They are out there!
Dean & Diane Fry….9/03
![]() ![]() ![]() Should you care to contact the Frys, their email address is:
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