Actress Pattern Pickle Dish

Original Actress pattern pressed glass dates from the 1880s. It depicts famous actresses of the day on a large number of table service pieces. Authentic pieces were made in clear and clear with frosted areas.

The only shape known to be reproduced is the 9½" relish shown below. It was first made from a new mold in 1957 by Imperial Glass Corporation. The first copy can be distinguished from the original by the placement of the shell and crossed paddle motifs on the ends. On originals, this design is on the outside of the dish; it is on the inside of the new dishes. About 1966, Imperial added raised hobs along the top rim. Originals never had hobs; old rims are smooth.

The new mold has now found its way to Boyd Glass where it has been made in genuine vaseline--it contains uranium and glows under long wave black light. Just keep in mind that 1) old was made in clear only (all colors are new); 2) old rims are smooth; 3) shell and paddles are on the outside of authentic pieces.

Fig. 1 Reproduction Actress pattern 9½" pickle dish in vaseline glass.

Fig. 2 Original Actress pattern 9½" pickle dish was made in clear crystal only, some with frosted areas.

Fig. 3 Shell and paddle motif is on inside of new Actress pattern relish.

Fig. 4 Shell and paddle motif is on outside of original Actress pattern relish.

Fig. 5 Rims on new Actress pattern relish dishes have raised hobs.

Fig. 6 Rims on original Actress relish dishes are plain and smooth; they do not have hobs.