Fasolka vase, grey glass, designed by J. S. Drost, Ząbkowice, Poland, 1970s

The 'Fasolka' vase, designed by Jan Sylwester Drost for HSG Ząbkowice in the 1970s, is an example of Polish utility glass where organic form meets functionality. Made of thick, pressed glass in a smoky grey shade, it features a balanced proportion: a wide, stable base transitions into a rounded, slightly asymmetrical body narrowing towards a characteristic, double-cut rim. The entire surface is covered with a raised bubble pattern, giving the vase a three-dimensional texture that is tactile and reflects light effectively thanks to its glossy finish. The colour scheme is kept in cool, subdued grey with a clear gradient darkening towards the base. The construction is uniform, with no visible seams or joints, and the vase is characterised by the solidity typical of Polish design from the 1970s. Condition is very good – no visible damage or signs of restoration, only minimal signs of age. The form of the 'Fasolka' vase carries the voice of Polish modernism of the 1970s, when craftsmanship and experimentation met at the intersection of everyday life and inspiration from nature. The organic shape and bubble texture speak of an era seeking playfulness in everyday objects. The smoky glass filters light, giving the surroundings softness and a subtle shade, while the tactile bubbles recall hand-formed details and the designers' courage to play with material. The vase will work both as a soloist on a dark wood sideboard in a mid-century modern inspired living room and in collector's arrangements from the 1970s. It can be combined with other pressed glass items of contrasting texture, as well as with geometric lamps or minimalist ceramics to emphasise its modernist pedigree. Interiors kept in subdued colours will bring out the subtle shade of the glass and allow daylight to highlight the raised bubble pattern, creating a coherent, refined composition.