Optical vase, pressed glass, design by J. Drost, HSG Ząbkowice, Poland, 1970s

Optical vase from the Ząbkowice Glassworks, designed by Jan Drost in the 1970s, made of pressed soda glass. The structure consists of a spherical body with a height of 17 cm and a width of 16 cm; the entire surface is covered with subtle, vertical optical grooves that shape the surface and modulate the light. The colour scheme oscillates around a cool olive yellow, arranged in a gradient – more intense at the edges, transitioning to a colourless, transparent central part. The visual effect is enhanced by the shine of the smooth, carefully polished surface and the soft, geometric division of the form without additional decorations or handles. The design fits into the mid-century modern trend with strong Scandinavian inspirations, reflected in both the transparency of the glass and the minimalist character. Condition is very good – no cracks or chips, only slight signs of use appropriate to its age. The form of this vase evokes the pure discipline of the 1970s, when industrial design in Poland gained a new dimension thanks to bold experiments with texture and light. The glass seems to tell a story about breaking the boundaries of perception of everyday objects; the vertical waves resemble slowed echoes of sound, and the play of cool tones brings a sense of luminous lightness to the interior. The vase speaks the language of the era – about how craftsmanship became synonymous with subtle innovation, offering simplicity combined with masterful control of light and colour. The 'Optical' vase can be placed on a low wooden or veneer console, so that the light reflecting off the grooves complements the structure of the tabletop. It pairs well with matte ceramics or graphite metalwork, which will emphasise its transparency and colour contrast. It works well in mid-century modern arrangements, subdued collector's interiors, and modern spaces where it is worth displaying a single, expressive glass accent among natural or geometric forms.