Mid-century modern vase, glass, HSG Tarnowiec, Poland, 1970s

A vase produced by HSG Tarnowiec in Poland in the 1970s features an organic, slender silhouette made of blown glass. It is characterized by an intense, deep red colour with a semi-transparent, glossy finish. The lower part and round base remain fully transparent, creating a striking contrast and giving the whole form lightness. The vase has an elongated, narrowing neck, ending in an impressively curved, asymmetrically flattened mouth – a solution clearly inspired by the mid-century modern and space age trends. The material shows subtle texture nuances and micro air bubbles from hand forming. The transparent base is distinguished by delicate traces of manual modelling. The item is in very good vintage condition, with no chips or cracks; only minor, surface scratches typical of the age and artisanal origin of the glass are visible, with no signs of restoration. The form of this vase tells the story of Polish design of the 1970s: a time when glass was a sketch of experiment and bold colour. Its red seems to pulse with light, and the fancifully curved mouth evokes images of the cosmic inspirations of the space age and the breaths of modernism. In hand, the vase feels fresh, as if it has captured the dynamic energy of the creative process – every microscopic air bubble and surface waviness speaks of the craftsmanship and freedom of the era of experimentation with form. The vase can be placed on a prominent console or combined with geometric, minimalist accessories, where its colour and fanciful shape will play the main role. It works well in a living room decorated in the spirit of mid-century modern, but also in collector's interiors full of references to the 1970s. It is worth combining it with a neutral background — light wood, white or graphite top — and simple glass or metal accessories, which will bring out the artistic character and sculptural quality of this form.