Set of dessert plates, Art Deco, crystal, Hortensja Glassworks, Poland, 1930s

A set of five crystal dessert plates from Hortensja Glassworks, produced in Poland in the 1930s, exemplifies the precision of craftsmanship and the characteristic Art Deco aesthetics of the era. The colourless, clear crystal allows light to play freely on the shiny surfaces. Each plate features a subtly wavy, geometrically profiled edge and a central engraved rosette in the form of a star, surrounded by a narrow band of cuts and faceted polishing. The edges are regular and meticulously polished, and the whole is free from any air bubbles, chips, or scratches. The set is in very good condition, with no visible signs of use, confirming the high quality of Hortensja's interwar crystal glass. The way these plates catch and refract light tells the story of the 1930s—when Art Deco sought a compromise between decoration and function. The minimalism of form meets fine geometric cuts, and the centre of the rosette star reminds us that even a utilitarian object could be treated as a small stage for light. Each plate still carries the quiet whisper of the era: the light of crystal, a subtle gleam, a discreet play of proportions. This set can be used at a classic table for serving desserts, jellies, or small sweets—especially well paired with silver details or minimalist tableware in the spirit of modernism. It also works well as a delicate accent in a collector's interior, arranged on a sideboard or console among other period items to highlight the purity of Art Deco lines. The transparent crystal of the plates is worth combining with matte ceramic dishes or coloured glass, achieving a composition corresponding to the spirit of the 1930s. There are no specific care instructions from the manufacturer, but traditional crystal glass is best washed by hand in lukewarm water with mild agents—this will help maintain the clarity of the cut and polish for years to come.