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

A vase designed by Jerzy Słuczan-Orkusz in the 1970s for the Krakow Glass Institute is an example of Polish mid-century modern design. The entire piece is made of high-quality glass, coloured in a deep, warm orange. The form combines a spherical, massive body with a proportionally slender neck flared at the opening. The glass is carefully polished to a high gloss, making the surface reflect light evenly, highlighting the colour saturation and precision of workmanship. A decorative trail of smoothly applied glass mass wraps around the neck in a zigzag, raised pattern, giving the whole a three-dimensional character and a subtle tactile texture. The base is slightly raised and round, accentuating the axial symmetry of the design. Condition is very good – no visible damage, restoration or significant signs of use. This item tells its own story of the bold 1970s in Poland: the saturated orange speaks the language of joy and experimentation, while the smooth, shiny surface evokes the modernity of the mid-century modern era. The clear geometry of sphere–neck–flared opening combines organic quality with balanced discipline, as if the designer was in dialogue with the international design scene, yet bringing an original line and local character. The play of light on the zigzag texture creates a dynamic flow effect, evoking the spirit of formal exploration and a love for experimental solutions in Polish glass design of the 1970s. The vase can be displayed solo, on a low sideboard or table in the living room, where the intense colour and glass shine play the main role among neutral fabrics and minimalist surfaces. It will also look good with other vintage items in the mid-century spirit: geometric ceramics, neutral colours or contrasting green plants. It is also suitable for eclectic collections, where the vivid colour and fluid line will add energy and a touch of artistic flair to the interior.