Ankerglas Bernsdorf Pink Pressed Glass Fish Dish, Art Deco, c.1930s, Made in Germany

Pink depression glass was made to catch the light — and ninety years on, this one still does exactly that. Ankerglas Bernsdorf was one of Germany's most prolific pressed glass manufacturers of the interwar period, producing coloured glassware that was exported across Europe and into British Commonwealth markets including Australia. The "FOREIGN" stamp on the base is the historical fingerprint of that trade: under the British Merchandise Marks Act, German and Czechoslovakian goods entering Commonwealth countries during the politically fraught 1930s were required to be marked "Foreign" rather than named by country. It's a small detail that tells a big story.

The fish form itself is wonderfully considered — the entire dish sculpted into an elongated fish silhouette, the underside deeply moulded with layered scale texture that catches the rosaline pink glass beautifully, transitioning into a vertically ribbed fanned tail that doubles as a handle. The base sits on three feet, one of which is formed as a fin — a charming detail you only notice when you pick it up. The smooth upper rim curves gently inward into a shallow boat shape, originally designed for serving relish, appetisers, or sweets. It originally came with a lid. A considered addition to a glass collection, a dressing table, or a tablescape that rewards a second look.

Details

• Maker: Ankerglas Bernsdorf, Germany
• Era: Art Deco; c.1930s
• Material: Heavy pressed glass, rosaline/pale salmon pink
• Dimensions: 22 cm long × 10 cm wide
• Base: Three-footed, one foot formed as a fin
• Backstamp: "FOREIGN" (impressed circular stamp)
• Note: Originally came with a lid — lid not included
• Country of Origin: Germany

Condition

Excellent vintage condition. Trapped air bubbles visible in the glass — a natural characteristic of 1930s pressed glass manufacture, not damage. A few tiny nibbles on the tail tip and mouth tip — detectable by touch only, not visible to the eye. Lovely deep scale texture fully intact. No chips, cracks, or internal stress fractures to the body.

The photographs form part of the condition report — please review all images carefully before purchasing.

Care

Hand wash gently with mild detergent. Avoid soaking, abrasive cleaners, and dishwashers. Do not expose to sudden temperature changes. Handle the tail and nose tips with care.

Every piece is carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure it arrives at your doorstep in perfect condition.