William J. Blenko was born in 1854 in England and trained in glass making. He traveled to the US in 1893 to make glass. Over the next 25 years, he celebrated successes and survived setbacks, including the failure of three glass factories. In 1921, he moved to Milton, WV, to set up yet another glass factory, but this one stuck and is a family owned business to this very day. The success of Blenko grew. Today, Blenko is known for the variety and intensity of their colors, some of which are achieved by adding metal oxides to the glass, as well as the pride of their glassblowers and designers that shows in their unique pieces.
Blenko stickers are helpful when it comes to dating one of their pieces, because they have changed over the years:
Here are some of my favorite Blenko items:
Blenko Glass #384 Azure Blue Water Pitcher
The identity number for this bottle shows that the original introduction to the market was 1938, it was the 4th design issued that year and it is still being made.
This one is azure blue and features the two indents to hold the bottle while pouring out a beverage. Can you imagine it filled with blue flowers? Very Vintage Kitsch is offering this on Etsy for $97.
Blenko Crystal Clear Glass Fish
This 16 inch long fish was designed originally by Winslow Anderson in the 1960s and is another iconic Blenko piece that collectors love. It can be used as a vase or even a terrarium. It’s identification number is #971L (L stands for Long).
I would enjoy its clear glass and streamlined shape perched in a shelf. Blackbird Fly Vintage on Etsy has this priced at $150.
Blenko 882 Ruby Red Hand Blown Apple
Oh the luscious Ruby Red Blenko 882 Apple is making my mouth water! What a great gift for the apple of your eye.
This would be great on a windowsill in the kitchen or even as a reminder to work diligently on an office desk as a paperweight. Foothills Cottage has this tempting bit of handblown glass to cherish for $70 on Etsy.
Blenko Owl Bookends in Amber Color
I LOVE owls! These two are heavy and thick enough to hold books on a shelf or on the table in your reading nook. They are a warm amber color which reminds me of honey in tea and a cozy fireplace nearby.
I also connect owls to knowledge and knowledge to reading so they give a gentle reminder to quiet your mind and body and read. Roots and Branches Co on Etsy would love for you to give them a home for $135.
Extra credit:
Blenko Glass Company website
Blenko Glass Catalogs to look for your pieces
