Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautifully understated, heavy lead crystal oval dish featuring a delicate wheel-engraved motif of wheat stalks and wildflowers. Hand-signed on the base with a classic Orrefors registration number, it represents the height of mid-century Scandinavian modernism where functional objects were elevated to fine art.
Story
Deep in the forests of Småland, Swedish glassmakers transformed a former ironworks into a global powerhouse of design. This dish carries a hand-engraved serial number on its base, linking it directly to the master craftsman who shaped it.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1898, Orrefors became world-famous in the 1920s and 1950s by pairing fine artists with master glassblowers. Designers like Simon Gate, Edward Hald, and Sven Palmqvist revolutionized glass design, moving away from heavy Victorian cutting toward fluid, light-catching forms inspired by Scandinavian nature.
Condition & Value
The crystal appears bright and clear with no major chips or clouding. There is minor shelf wear on the bottom surface, which is typical for vintage glassware and does not significantly impact value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.