Overview
A striking Mid-Century Modernist ice bucket featuring a suspended cylindrical chamber inside a thick, clear acrylic cube. The architectural design uses geometric planes and beveled edges to create a fascinating play of light and shadow.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking Mid-Century Modernist ice bucket featuring a suspended cylindrical chamber inside a thick, clear acrylic cube. The architectural design uses geometric planes and beveled edges to create a fascinating play of light and shadow.
Story
During the 1970s, high-end designers transformed barware into sculptural art. This piece uses optical illusion to make ice appear suspended in mid-air, turning a simple party utility into a mesmerizing conversation starter.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece strongly reflects the pioneering acrylic designs of Alessandro Albrizzi and Charles Hollis Jones. These designers elevated industrial plastics into high-end luxury materials favored by Hollywood elite and international jet-setters.
Condition & Value
The photos show light surface scratching and minor clouding consistent with age and use. Acrylic is highly susceptible to scratching; professional polishing can restore its original clarity and significantly improve its value. Value is driven by the popularity of Mid-Century Modern barware and the sculptural quality of the design.
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.