Modernism vase, glass, designed by J. Słuczan-Orkusz, Poland, 1970s

A vase designed by Jerzy Słuczan-Orkusz for the Krakow Glass Institute in the 1970s is an example of Polish modernist design, where fluid, organic forms meet a rarely seen colour palette. The hand-blown glass features a striking smoky purple with subtle transitions of blue-violet tones inside the mass, creating a delicate marbled effect finished with an iridescent sheen. The upper rim has a slightly reddish-purple hue, and the slender neck is symmetrically decorated with teardrop-shaped applications, giving the whole a distinctive, sculptural accent. The wide, rounded base smoothly transitions into a tall, slightly flared neck. The vase has a repair on one of the decorative applications, but otherwise is in good condition, with no visible cracks, scratches or clouding – with natural features of handmade glass production. This vase seems to speak with the voice of its time – an era when Polish glass was gaining international recognition thanks to experiments with colouring and form. Purple tones drift across the glass surface like mist, evoking the evening light falling on the Krakow Vistula as the city sinks into a peaceful atmosphere. The spiral applications turn the minimalist form into a study of light and movement, suggesting that even an ordinary object can become an artistic piece if guided by an experienced craftsman's hand. The vase will work well as a solitaire on a light, smooth chest of drawers or console, where the play of light on the purple glass will become the main element of the composition. It can be combined with matte ceramics or metal details in cool shades, emphasising its modernist pedigree. To bring out the depth of colour, it is worth placing it in a spot with diffused light, and a single branch with a graphic silhouette will complement its character – it will look good in both minimalist and eclectic collector's interiors.