Item Number: M-01
Approximate Size: 6½” W – 3¼” H
Production Dates: 1940-1944
The small and petite 3-Toed Tricorne is an item we don’t really hear (or see) a lot about. Why is that? It seems to always be overshadowed by its bigger sibling, the 3-Cornered Centerpiece. Thus, I think it is important to focus the spotlight on the 3-Toed Tricorne. It is way overdue.
I think the first thing I should mention is its official name and description. Rarely do people call it by its proper name. Even some book authors don’t call it by its proper name, which has only led to more confusion. It was never described as a centerpiece by Fostoria Glass, for it is too small in size. Fostoria described this piece as a “tricorne”, which honestly, is a most perfect description. It means “having three horns or hornlike projections; three-cornered”. So let’s be clear; this item is not a centerpiece – it’s a tricorne.
The 3-Toed Tricorne is an intriguing item, because frankly – most people don’t know what to use it for. In the beginning, when it was first introduced, Fostoria Glass categorized it as a miscellaneous item. As time went by, it was then included in their Nappy category – as this resource website has done. It would seem that even Fostoria was conflicted as to how to categorize this item, and I think that is the case for many collectors today. Truthfully, you can use it for whatever you wish!
Another topic worth mentioning is the true production dates for the 3-Toed Tricorne. Unfortunately, it seems that most published production dates for this item are severely flawed. The error is not reflective of a few years; rather, the data is incorrect by decades! Look at the production dates posted above, for this piece really did not have a long life. For that reason alone, the 3-Toed Tricorne might be worthy of another look.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available 3-Toed Tricornes on eBay.
