Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A striking example of Swedish Postmodernism, this hand-blown glass vase features a frosted 'snow' texture accented by a vertical trail of vibrant, multi-colored glass threads. Designed by the legendary Bertil Vallien, it represents the 1980s shift toward playful, graphic art glass.
Story
In the 1980s, Swedish glass moved from austere minimalism to joyful color. Bertil Vallien used a 'trail' technique to drop liquid glass onto the spinning vase, creating a permanent rainbow frozen in a snowy landscape.
Maker / Origin
Bertil Vallien is Sweden's most famous glass artist, best known for his haunting sand-casted glass boats. Since joining Kosta Boda in 1963, he has revolutionized the medium, winning the Visionary Award from the Glass Art Society.
Condition & Value
The glass appears clear with no visible chips or 'flea bites' on the rim. The colored trailing is intact; any scratches to the frosted surface would significantly lower the value. Excellent condition. Prices for the Rainbow series vary by size and shape.
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.