Signed Hawkes Princess ABP Cut Glass Tray, Antique American Brilliant Period Crystal

An exceptional antique American Brilliant Period cut glass round tray by T.G. Hawkes & Co., featuring the highly collectible Princess pattern.

This is one of the pieces in my collection that I find especially exciting. The first thing that struck me was the extraordinary quality of the cutting. It is intricate, deep, and beautifully balanced, creating the kind of brilliance and sparkle that makes exceptional American Brilliant Period glass so captivating. At nearly five pounds, the tray also has a wonderful substantial feel in the hand.

What makes this piece particularly special—and rare—is the combination of maker, pattern, form, and signature. T.G. Hawkes was one of the premier American cut-glass houses of the Brilliant Period, and Princess is a documented Hawkes pattern collected in its own right. While examples of Princess can occasionally be found, finding a large round tray in the pattern that also retains a clear Hawkes signature is considerably more difficult than finding more common serving forms. The signature is especially important because it removes the uncertainty that can surround attribution of unsigned American Brilliant Period glass.

I also love that this is a piece that can be appreciated without knowing anything about antique crystal. The complexity of the cutting and the way it reflects light are immediately impressive. For a knowledgeable collector, however, the signed Hawkes attribution and documented Princess pattern give it another level of significance.

Maker: T.G. Hawkes & Co.
Pattern: Princess
Period: American Brilliant Period
Type: Round serving/display tray
Dimensions: Approx. 11 1/8” diameter × 1 1/2” high
Weight: Approx. 4 lb. 11 oz.
Mark: Signed Hawkes

Excellent antique condition with no chips, cracks, or fleabites observed. Any minor surface wear is consistent with age and careful use.

A beautiful collector-quality example that I would be equally happy displaying on its own or incorporating into a fine American Brilliant Cut Glass collection. It would also make an exceptional serving piece or a very special gift for someone who appreciates important American crystal.

Color and appearance may vary slightly depending on lighting and individual screen settings.