Mid-century modern vase, multicolour glass, Huta Hortensja, Poland, 1970s

A glass vase from the 1970s, known as 'Sękacz', was made at the Hortensja Glassworks in Piotrków Trybunalski. It is distinguished by its organic, sculptural form: an elongated, sometimes twisted neck smoothly expands into an irregular opening, reminiscent of an old tree trunk or flowing hot glass. The body is unified by dynamic, interwoven streaks of colour – deep cobalt, intense ruby red, and white blend with noble accents of amber and transparency, creating an abstract, fluid pattern inside the glass. The glossy surface highlights the play of light, and numerous glass drops and bulges on the neck emphasise the handmade technique characteristic of Polish decorative glass from the mid-century modern era. The form is stable; the thick base shows minimal signs typical of age, with no cracks or losses. The condition is very good – only minor abrasions on the bottom, not affecting the overall impression. The shape and colours of the vase refer to the 1970s – a decade of exploration in Polish design, when experimentation with glass had both sculptural and utilitarian character. 'Sękacz' seems to tell the story of a bold play with colour and material – as if it wanted to capture the movement of liquid glass, freezing it in a dynamic gesture. Colourful streams slowly penetrate the smooth surface, and the glass bulges invite touch – as if the vase were a witness and participant in the creative, glassmaking improvisation of those years. The vase can be displayed on a low wooden or marble console, where it will play with light and colour rhythm. It will work well with furniture from the late 1960s and 1970s – both in a mid-century modern living room and in a collector's arrangement with a free, eclectic structure. It is worth pairing it with simple ceramics, light upholstery, or graphics in intense colours, allowing the vase to define the visual centre of the composition. It brings the potential of a soloist, while also complementing a dialogue with other objects in the spirit of Polish retro.