In 1968 Darrah Roberts published his first work on shades. This was the spiral bound book entitled Art Glass Shades. In 1970 he published a one sheet revised price guide for that book. It cost 50 cents. On the back of the price guide he included some commentary, part of which is quoted below.

“Shade prices have been increasing steadily over the past few years as more collectors are introduced to this glass and to art glass in general. These price increases are especially noticeable when trying to acquire one of the choicer shades such as pieces of decorated Tiffany, the Decorated Aurenes and many of the fancy decorated QUEZALS. We have finally yielded to these price pressures and have decided to revise our price guide to reflect the new prices. Shade prices are still not realistic, however, when compared to those paid for similar vases, as we were recently asked $950 for a QUEZAL vase in the exact size, shape and decor of shade No. 11. This is a high price to pay for a “bottom” that is not used anyway. The vases are still enjoying more than a 10 to 1 disparity over the more common shades, however, this has been shaved somewhat in the case of the finer shades. The position of the vase is sure to be eroded further when more collectors realize that the shade makes an equally desirable cabinet piece and is useful as well. This trend was recently strengthened when an eastern collector was offered over $1,250 for his Steuben shade made of TYRIAN glass.”

“Always remember this about “shade collectors”: In reality they are collectors of fine iridescent glass and will purchase this glass in any form if the price is agreeable. Shades are currently popular because they can be purchased for less than the other forms such as vases, bowls, perfumes, cuspidors, candlesticks, jars, plates and etc. The true collector of this type of glass is not interested in a shade made of cheap glass that shows no quality, workmanship or beauty. Any form will do, of nice cabinet piece size, as long as it is a good example of Tiffany, Steuben, Quezal, Durand, Lustre Art or Fostoria workmanship. Actually, the shade gives an extra bonus in that it can be enjoyed and used daily in desk and table lamps, ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, floor and pole lamps and in various other pleasing ways.”

“It is only a matter of time when all collectors of fine glass recognize these shades as some of our finest national treasures in glass.”

Scott Hansen,
Stamford, CT