Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a wonderfully tactile, minimalist art glass figurine of a reclining seal, rendered in a warm, buttery cream-colored alabaster glass. Designed under the 'Peto' line, it represents the height of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, where complex natural forms are distilled down to their absolute, elegant essence.
Story
Danish designers in the 1970s sought to capture the spirit of the natural world using as few lines as possible. This little seal was born from that philosophy, turning cold glass into a warm, living form that begs to be held. It represents a golden era of Nordic glassmaking where art and playfulness merged.
Maker / Origin
The 'Peto' mark is associated with the legendary Danish glassworks Kastrup-Holmegaard during their collaboration era with Royal Copenhagen. Holmegaard, founded in 1825, became a powerhouse of 20th-century design by employing visionary artists who pushed the physical boundaries of glass blowing and molding.
Condition & Value
The figurine appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or flea bites. The polished surface retains its brilliant, glossy luster, and the hand-engraved signature on the underside is crisp and legible. Excellent condition like this helps secure the higher end of the value range.
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.