Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A beautiful hand-blown studio art glass vase featuring a frosted, satin finish that softens a vibrant palette of swirled plum, sky blue, sage green, and amber. Its low-profile, spherical 'squat' shape and polished flat rim are classic hallmarks of late 20th-century independent glass workshops.
Story
During the late 20th century, a quiet revolution took place in small, hot glass studios across North America. Artists rejected industrial uniformity to create organic, painterly vessels where no two pieces could ever be identical. This vase captures that spirit, turning molten sand into a permanent watercolor painting.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece is highly characteristic of the American Studio Glass Movement, which was pioneered by artists like Harvey Littleton and Dominik Labino in the 1960s. By the 1980s and 90s, hundreds of highly skilled independent glassmakers were operating regional studios, producing high-quality, expressive decorative vessels for local galleries.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in very good condition with no visible chips, cracks, or deep scratches in the frosted finish. The polished top rim and base show expected light shelf wear. Excellent condition preserves the maximum value for decorative studio glass.
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.