Hartman Furniture Advertising Pitcher

Q: I have a clear glass pitcher that belonged to my grandmother, who died more than 50 years ago. It has a scalloped base and a beautiful pattern. It weighs about 2 pounds and is almost 9 inches tall. On the inside of the base it says, “Let Hartman Feather Your Nest.” Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

A: The slogan “Let Hartman Feather Your Nest” was used by Hartman Furniture and Carpet Co. of Chicago. Leon Hartman founded a Chicago furniture company called People’s Outfitting Co. in 1888. The firm’s name was changed to Hartman Furniture and Carpet Co. in 1898. Hartman had stores in several cities and was in business until at least the late 1920s. Furniture and carpets made by other companies were sold through Hartman’s stores and by mail order. The company’s logo was used on a large pitcher made by McKee Glass Co. in about 1910. The pattern is called “Aztec Sunburst” or “McKee’s Sunburst.” Your pitcher would sell for about $100.