Topic: genuine Mdina??

[Paul S.]

Being new to this production, I thought that all bases were either 'coach bolts' or polished flat.    I assume this is a carafe or vase, although don't see it in Mark Hill's book (He does say that not all designs are shown).   I do have a couple of 'inside out' vases, and the pontil/cross does look about right.  Do people think this is genuine, and would the date be right at about 1970, or is it earlier, does the colour seem rather pale for that earlier period?    Height is 9.1/2".    The lack of base wear is quite striking.  Grateful for any comments please, and thanks for looking. 

[suzygpr]

Hi Paul

Yes it's Mdina. Their bases are polished flat - the coach bolt pontil stamp is very early Isle of Wight Studio Glass.  In 1969, after the Boffos joined, they polished the pontil scar in the same way as Whitefriars leaving a concave polished area on the base.  I have found a few examples in this shape that also have a Boffo bottom, but agree that the colour is one I would normally associate with later production.  I'm sure Sue will enlighten us more.

http://www.pips-trip.co.uk/subprod/mdina-gozo-glass-0002210.aspx

Suzy x

[chopin-liszt]

I associate this shape of carafe, with the sloping neck rather than pronounced shoulders as being of early production, as evidenced by the polished pontil marks found on them.
I have a blue (flat polished base) and an amethyst (polished pontil mark) one of this height,  and a couple of stunning blue, cloudy and iridescent ones of 11.5", both with the polished pontil mark which indicates Harris/Boffo period.

Normally, though they appear with many more colours from silver salts and often with good iridescent streaks!

Later carafes are ~ 20 cm tall, and have pronounced shoulders, much more of a bell shape.

[Paul S.]

my thanks to both of you for your help.   Of the few pieces that I possess, all have the flat polished base, so this one with the polished pontil base is a first for me, and of course I will keep.  thanks again.