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Identification

Bohemian Art Nouveau Iridescent Glass Vase with Enameled Sunflower

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

The vase exhibits classic Art Nouveau / Jugendstil characteristics, specifically the iridescent plum-to-bronze glass body and the stylized, sinuous enameled and gilded sunflower decoration.

Story

This vase originates from the Bohemian glassmaking region (modern-day Czech Republic) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The area was renowned for its innovative iridescent treatments and Jugendstil designs, with prominent houses like Wilhelm Kralik Söhne, Rindskopf, and Loetz leading the movement. Without a signature, it is considered a strong representative example of the regional style rather than a specific studio's documented work.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

Based on the provided description, the vase appears to have intact enamel and gilding with a strong iridescent finish. However, the rim and base (pontil area) must be carefully inspected, as 'fleabites,' chips, or hairline cracks are common in glass of this age and significantly depress value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for Bohemian Art Nouveau glass remains stable, with strong demand for documented pieces by Loetz, Kralik, and Pallme-König. Unmarked pieces rely heavily on the visual impact of their iridescence and the quality of their enameled decoration. Buyers are primarily specialized art glass collectors and Art Nouveau enthusiasts who frequent dedicated auction events rather than general estate sales.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong Art Nouveau / Jugendstil stylistic elements, specifically the sinuous enameled sunflower motif, appeal directly to period collectors.

▲ Deep plum-to-bronze iridescence is a highly desirable finish in Bohemian art glass.

▲ Hand-blown construction with a rough pontil confirms period authenticity.

Concerns

▼ Lack of a definitive maker's mark caps the value below documented Loetz or premium Kralik examples.

▼ Unverified dimensions — if the vase is a miniature (under 6 inches), the value range would shift downward.

▼ Unverified rim and base condition — any hidden chips, 'fleabites', or hairlines would severely discount the piece.

Best Venue

List with a mid-tier auction house that holds dedicated 20th-century decorative arts or art glass sales. Ensure exact dimensions are included in the listing, along with clear, well-lit macro photographs of the rim, base, and enameled sunflower to reassure remote bidders of its condition.

Upside Potential

If a documented pattern match or a hidden maker's mark (such as a crossed arrows mark for Kralik or a Loetz signature) is discovered, the vase could be firmly attributed, shifting the range toward the $700-$1,000 tier seen in documented examples.

Authenticity Risk

medium

While the rough pontil, wear, and specific style of iridescence strongly suggest period Bohemian glass, unmarked art glass is frequently reproduced or misattributed. Without a signature or documented pattern match, there is a moderate risk of it being a later 20th-century reproduction or a lesser maker's work elevated by style. Authentication by an art glass specialist is recommended before aiming for premium pricing.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 7 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Bonhams
    A Pair of Art Nouveau Kralik Gilt Metal Mounted Iridescent Glass Vases. CIRCA 1900.
    Lot is a pair of vases with metal mounts, differing in quantity and configuration.
    $813
  • Dragonfly
    Josef Rindskopf vases, a spectacular pair of feathered vases with the most delicate, hand painted, gold enamel, stylised, floral design
    Link could not be verified.
    $650
  • DuMouchelles· 2024-11-16
    Wilhelm Kralik Sohn (Bohemia) Blue on Gold Iridescent Glass Vase, Art Nouveau Silver Plate Mounting, H 6" W 4" Depth 3.75"
    Link could not be verified.
    $350
  • 1stDibs
    Bohemian 1900s Art Nouveau Iridescent Green Snake Glass Vase, Josef Rindskopf
    Link could not be verified.
    $283
  • DuMouchelles· 2024-11-16
    Ferdinand Von Poschinger (German) Jugendstil Enameled & Gilded Iridescent Glass Vase, Ca. 1900
    Link could not be verified.
    $200
  • DuMouchelles· 2024-11-16
    Josef Rindskopf (Czechoslovakian) Art Nouveau Pepita Iridescent Glass Vases, Ca. 1900, H 12.25" Dia. 5" 3 pcs.
    Lot consists of 3 pieces, whereas the subject is a single vase.
    $150
  • DuMouchelles· 2024-11-16
    Attributed to Wilhelm Kralik (Bohemia) Iridescent Pampas Glass Vase, Ca. 1910
    Link could not be verified.
    $90