Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a stunning pressed glass bowl featuring the iconic concentric ring design designed by pioneering Finnish architect and designer Aino Aalto. Originally named 'Bölgeblick' (meaning 'water ripples' in Swedish), this design represents a monumental shift in 20th-century glassware, marrying functionalism with organic, nature-inspired minimalism.
Story
In 1932, designer Aino Aalto won second prize in a Karhula-Iittala design competition with this ringed pattern, beating her famous husband Alvar Aalto. Inspired by the concentric ripples created when a pebble hits water, her design revolutionized everyday glassware.
Maker / Origin
Aino Aalto was a brilliant Finnish architect and designer who, alongside her husband Alvar, co-founded the famous design company Artek. She was a pioneer of Scandinavian modernism, championing the idea that beautiful, functional design should be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy.
Condition & Value
The bowl appears to be in good vintage condition with no major visible cracks or large chips. There is some light surface wear and minor scratching on the underside of the base consistent with age and use. Excellent, scratch-free condition commands a premium. Value is driven by the age of the production run, size, and condition.
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.