Preliminary identification

Frosted Glass 'Buddha Hand' Mudra Dish

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A delicate frosted glass sculpture depicting a hand in a sacred mudra, designed to hold small treasures or incense. It captures the serene elegance of Buddhist iconography through a minimalist, modern lens.

Story

Post-war designers became obsessed with the intersection of Eastern spirituality and Western minimalism. This piece translates an ancient gesture of peace into a tactile, functional object for the modern home.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this style is consistent with the 'Zen Modernism' movement of the 1960s and 70s. Companies like Hoya Crystal in Japan or even certain boutique European glassworks frequently experimented with these frosted, organic forms to evoke a sense of calm.

Condition & Value

The frosted surface appears clean without the typical 'oily' staining that can plague satin glass. No visible chips to the delicate fingertips, which is where damage usually occurs. Excellent condition maintains the higher end of the range.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.