Art Deco fruit bowl, glass, Val Saint Lambert, Belgium, 1950s
- Dimensions :
- H10 x W22 x D22
- Color :
- orange
- Material :
- glass and crystal
- Style :
- art deco
A glass fruit bowl produced by the Belgian manufacturer Val Saint Lambert in the 1950s, representing the late Art Deco movement with clear references to the modernist trends of the era. The vessel is made of thick, pressed glass in a warm, light amber colour with a characteristic pinkish undertone. The construction features high transparency and a dynamic, relief form – alternating polished ribs attract light and create distinct, architectural reflections, while the recesses between them are achieved by subtle surface matting. The rim of the bowl is adorned with regular, geometric protrusions, repeating the motif of radiant ribs and enhancing the sculptural character of the vessel. The whole is supported on three massive, faceted legs, precisely integrated with the rhythm of the form, giving the bowl stability and a sense of thoughtful, geometric harmony. All elements retain their original finish, with no signs of repair or restoration; only minimal signs of use typical for vintage items are present. Condition: very good, with no visible cracks or losses. The story told by the glass of this bowl is an epilogue of Art Deco, smoothly transitioning into the modernist optimism of the 1950s. The shape suggests both the deliberation and order of an architect and the glassy lightness that allows rays of light to linger on the smooth ribs. The bowl appears to have captured the southern light of old Belgium: matte fields remain in shadow, while prismatic, convex edges multiply reflections. Its form is a subtle tribute to eras when decoration meant not only ornamentation but also the architecture of light and texture, ready to engage in a quiet dialogue with the table it stands on. The bowl can be used as a main decorative accent in a living or dining room – especially when paired with furniture with simple, geometric lines typical of mid-century or Art Deco style. It works well on a dark wooden surface, where the amber shade of the glass contrasts with the background, and the polished ribs catch the light from a standing lamp or wall sconce. It can be combined with minimalist ceramics or single glass vases in similar colours to emphasise its period character. The bowl will fit both in collector's interiors inspired by the 1950s and in eclectic arrangements seeking a distinctive vintage detail.