Bean vase, red glass, Ząbkowice, Poland, 1970s

The 'Bean' vase is an example of Polish pressed glass from the 1970s, produced at HSG Ząbkowice. The tall form, with a characteristic cross-section reminiscent of the organic curve of a bean, is made from thick, uniformly coloured rose glass in an intense, warm red shade. The slender line narrows towards the top, ending with a slightly irregular rim typical of mid-century modernism. The surface is smooth and highly glossy, reflecting light and showcasing the depth of colour, free from patterns or additional decorations. The massive structure, with a noticeable weight at the base, highlights the precision of craftsmanship. The neck retains part of the original manufacturer's sticker, confirming its authenticity. The condition is very good – no chips or cracks, with production marks at the base typical for hand-formed glass. This form reflects the vocabulary of the 1970s, when Polish glassworks experimented with simplicity and colour, seeking expression through organic movement. The bean-shaped cross-section evokes the gentleness of nature and the unhurried rhythm of design sensitive to detail and pure function, where every reflection gives a deep breath of light. This vase, maintaining the rawness and honesty of the material, seems to whisper: 'It's not about decoration, but about gesture – concreteness, form, and the truth of colour.' It can be used as a centrepiece on a light wood console, where the red glass will stand out vividly in daylight or artificial light. It works well alongside minimalist ceramics, small vintage elements, or graphite accents that emphasise its modernist roots. An interior in the mid-century spirit, with a simple sofa and low tables, will bring out the essence of this aesthetic – pair it with a plant with soft leaves or a single, expressive branch to highlight the organic movement of the form.