Vase, mid-century modern, glass, designed by J. Słuczan-Orkusz, Poland, 1970s

A glass vase designed by Jerzy Słuczan-Orkusz for the Krakow Glass Institute, created in the 1970s, represents Polish modernism through its bold form and colour scheme. The body of the vase displays a gradation of colours – from deep amber red at the base, through brown-orange transitions, to a slightly lighter tone at the slender neck, which naturally widens upwards. Two massive, round handles made of glass in an intense, transparent yellow shade stand out, with their hand attachment emphasised by visible traces of traditional glassmaking techniques. The glass surface is distinctly glossy, enhancing the depth of the colour composition, and the whole is finished with an accentuated, slightly darkened upper edge. The proportions of the vase are balanced; the wide base smoothly transitions into the slender neck. Condition: very good, with no scratches, chips or cracks, and minimal signs of use. The form of this vase fits the optimism and bold aesthetic of the 1970s, when colour became a main feature in interiors. The vase tells the story of an era seeking joy in everyday objects – strong, hand-formed handles recall a time when craftsmanship met experimentation, and glass gained a new, dynamic identity. The colour transitions and contrasts echo the Krakow school of glass: the play of light and transparency creates a warm, almost theatrical effect on every part of the rounded body. In a living room, the vase can be displayed on a low console made of light wood or marble, where the play of lights will highlight its colour depth. Combined with minimalist ceramics or the raw form of contemporary sculpture, it could serve as an artistic accent in mid-century modern or eclectic vintage collections. It is worth pairing it with textiles in neutral tones and glass in another shade to create a dialogue of colours, preserving the nobility of the original form.