Kanawha Blue Slag Glass Rooster: A Collector’s Guide to Mid-Century Glass Art

Introduction: The Allure of Kanawha’s Blue Rooster

The Kanawha blue slag glass rooster is a stunning example of mid-century American glassware, crafted by Kanawha Glass Company in Dunbar, West Virginia (1973–1981). These roosters—part of a coveted series of standing animal figurines—combine opaque milk glass with vibrant blue slag swirls, making them highly sought after by collectors today.

Rare Kanawha blue slag glass rooster figurine standing on a table, featuring swirling white and cobalt blue milk glass. A prized mid-century collectible from Dunbar, West Virginia

Why collectors love them:

✔ Rarity – Only produced for 8 years

✔ Unique design – The only rooster in the series standing on a log

✔ UV-reactive slag glass – Some glow under blacklight.

History & Identification

1. Kanawha Glass Company’s Legacy

• Founded in the 1940s, Kanawha specialized in slag glass (colored glass mixed with white opal glass).

• Their rooster was the fourth iteration of this design, following versions by Portieux (France), Westmoreland, and L.E. Smith.

2. Key Features of Authentic Pieces

✅ Standing on a log base (unlike other brands’ designs)

✅ Blue-and-white swirls (slag glass patterns vary slightly)

✅ Height: ~9.5" tall, ~7" long

✅ Weight: ~3 lbs (heavy for glass)

✅ Markings: Some have a foil sticker (rare)

Note: Many lack labels, so design details are critical for authentication.

Collector’s Value & Market Trends

Condition	Price Range
Mint (with sticker)	$500-2,000
Good (minor flaws)	$200-500
Damaged (chips/cracks)	$80-200

Recent Sales Examples:

• $630 (green/white variant, eBay)

• $1,200 (pristine blue/white, private sale)

  
  

Where to Buy:

• eBay/Etsy (search "Kanawha slag rooster")

• Antique glass fairs (e.g., West Virginia Glass Festival)

• WorthPoint auctions (for rare pieces)

  
  

Spotting Fakes & Common Issues

⚠ Red Flags:

• Smooth, non-swirled glass (Kanawha’s slag has distinct patterns)8.

• Lightweight feel (authentic pieces are heavy)8.

• Perfect symmetry (hand-blown variations exist)9.

🔍 Inspect For:

• Chips on the comb or tail (common stress points)9.

• Dark spots (slag impurities; some buyers discount for this)9.

Styling & Display Ideas

1. Vintage Kitchen Accent

• Pair with Fire-King jadeite or amber glass for a retro vibe.

2. Collector’s Showcase

• Display alongside Kanawha’s moon-and-star glassware.

3. UV Light Feature

• Some blue slag glows under blacklight—test yours!

FAQ

1. How many colors were made?

Primarily blue/white, but green/white variants exist.

2. Can you use it as a candy dish?

Yes! The covered design (lid = rooster’s body) is functional.

3. Why is the log base significant?

It distinguishes Kanawha’s rooster from Westmoreland’s flat-base design.

Final Thoughts

With its handcrafted swirls and whimsical farmhouse charm, the Kanawha blue rooster is a testament to American glassblowing artistry. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love mid-century decor, this piece is a conversation starter.

Found one? Share your treasure in the comments!

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