You’re looking at one of the most identifiable designs of the Brilliant Period – Cetus. The Cetus pattern was actually a name made up by the Pearsons. However, over the years, most collectors have come to believe the pattern was likely cut by Meriden and it can be found with other Meriden designs in retailer ads throughout the period. The styling, polish and blanks have led to this well established opinion. You’ll notice some similarities between the Cetus pattern and some of Meriden’s greats – Byzantine, Theodora, No. 161, Rose Diamond.The first thing one notices about this bowl is the enormous 40-point central hobstar. 32-points is an impressive hobstar, but 40 is another thing entirely – pure brilliance. This hobstar has a central clear button to remain parallel with the rest of the pattern. Three graduating clear-button hobstars radiate from the center of the bowl to the edge of the bowl – each one gaining more points as you move towards the edge. Each of these sections is divided by precisely cut cane running into a large scalloped edge.2502

The bowl is in excellent condition and measures 9 1/4″ wide and 4″ tall. The blank and polish are of the highest quality. This is clearly a pattern that is and should be held in the highest esteem.