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Quezal glass occupies a unique niche in the world of early American art glass—distinct, luxurious, and often mistaken for its more famous counterpart, Tiffany. Created in the early 20th century, Quezal pieces are prized by collectors for their iridescence, technical execution, and unmistakable beauty. But despite its quality, the name remains under the radar for many casual collectors.
This guide offers a clear, no-fluff look at what Quezal glass is, how to identify it, and why it still holds relevance in the antique and decorative arts market today.
Quezal Art Glass and Decorating Company was founded in 1901 in Queens, New York by a group of skilled glassworkers—many of whom had previously worked for Louis Comfort Tiffany. Chief among them was Thomas Johnson, a former Tiffany chemist and glass expert whose knowledge of color, composition, and iridescence played a central role in Quezal’s early success.
The company operated until roughly the mid-1920s and produced a wide range of decorative pieces including vases, lamp shades, and bowls—all designed in the spirit of the Art Nouveau movement. At its peak, Quezal rivaled Tiffany Studios and Steuben in terms of quality, though today it’s still considered the most “under-collected” of the three.
Quezal glass is most easily recognized by its lustrous iridescence—often gold, green, or opalescent—with subtle or bold surface patterning. Pieces may exhibit pulled feathers, floriform shapes, or threading, and are typically blown rather than molded.
Notable traits include:
While some designs echo those of Tiffany Studios, Quezal glass maintains its own identity—often slightly more delicate in shape and with a distinct palette and finesse in execution.
Most genuine Quezal pieces are signed, though not all signatures are easy to spot. The typical mark is an etched or engraved “Quezal” signature, sometimes accompanied by numbers, and often located on the base.
If you're evaluating a piece:
Caution: some later studio glassmakers imitated Quezal’s iridescent style, and not all pieces that resemble Quezal are authentic. Original period pieces tend to be finer in construction and more consistent in finish.
Quezal remains undervalued compared to Tiffany and Steuben, which is precisely why seasoned collectors still pursue it. As of 2025, market values for Quezal have held steady with some upward movement in recent years.
General pricing (depending on condition, form, and decoration):
Condition is critical. Chips, cracks, or cloudy surfaces can reduce value significantly. Originality also matters—a Quezal shade fitted to a reproduction lamp base is less desirable than a period-correct, complete fixture.
Collectors of American art glass are increasingly recognizing Quezal as an equal—not just a Tiffany imitator. Its combination of technical expertise and aesthetic sensitivity makes it a compelling category for both new and experienced buyers.
Additionally, because many Quezal pieces were not mass-produced, there's a degree of rarity baked into the market. While not every piece is high-value, well-preserved examples with good form and signature are only getting harder to find.
Quezal glass is an elegant, often underappreciated chapter in American decorative arts. With roots tied directly to the Tiffany legacy and a product line that rivals the best of the era, Quezal offers collectors a unique opportunity: museum-level glasswork at a fraction of the price of its more famous peers.
If you're holding or eyeing a piece, take a closer look—it might be more significant than you think.
