Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite, heavy lead-free crystal block featuring a deeply engraved scene of a swan and cygnet gliding beneath a weeping willow. This piece showcases the masterful intaglio engraving technique for which the historic Moser glassworks is globally renowned.
Story
Deep in the Bohemian forests, glassmakers perfected a recipe for brilliant crystal without using lead. This heavy block captures a serene, timeless moment of a mother swan and her cygnet, carved in reverse to create a magical 3D illusion.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1857 by Ludwig Moser in Karlovy Vary, Moser became the official glassmaker to emperors, kings, and popes. Known as the 'Glass of Kings,' the company survived two world wars and nationalization, maintaining its legendary standards of hand-engraving and unique lead-free potassium-soda glass formula.
Condition & Value
The crystal block appears to be in excellent vintage condition with crisp engraving details. There is minor shelf wear on the bottom surface, which is typical for heavy glass pieces of this age and does not significantly detract from its value.
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.