AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a piece of high-quality Swedish art glass produced by the Kosta glassworks (now Kosta Boda). The object features a classic clear crystal composition with a thick-walled construction, indicating expert mouth-blown or hand-finished craftsmanship. A key distinguishing feature is the presence of the original blue and white circular foil label, which displays a crown emblem and the text 'Kosta SWEDEN 1742'. The year 1742 refers to the founding of the glassworks, while the specific label style suggests a production date from the mid-20th century, likely between 1950 and 1970. The glass exhibits excellent clarity and light refraction typical of lead crystal. Notably, it contains black hand-written markings on the exterior surface (reading '90' and 'o'), which appear to be temporary inventory or pricing notations rather than permanent factory glass-etched signatures. The overall condition appears excellent with no visible chips, cracks, or clouding (sickness) in the glass, though minor surface scratches may be present consistent with age. This piece exemplifies the Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian design aesthetic, focusing on purity of form and material quality.

Based on my visual examination of the provided images, this piece is a Mid-Century Modern clear lead crystal bowl/vessel by Kosta Sweden. The presence of the original blue and silver circular foil label featuring the crown emblem and the '1742' founding date provides strong evidence of authenticity, placing the production period between the late 1950s and mid-1970s. The '90' markings appear to be temporary grease pencil notations, often applied at estate sales or antique shops; these should be carefully removed to realize full value. The glass displays excellent clarity and substantial 'heft' characteristic of Kosta's high-lead content crystal. In the current secondary market, clear Kosta utility pieces and simple organic forms have seen a steady supply, which keeps prices accessible. While Kosta is a prestigious name, unsigned clear pieces without specific designer attributions (such as Vicke Lindstrand or Mona Morales-Schildt) generally fetch modest prices compared to their engraved or colored counterparts. Limitations: My assessment is based solely on digital photography. A physical inspection is required to confirm the absence of 'glass sickness' (internal clouding), flea bites on the rim, or base wear. Furthermore, I cannot confirm the presence of an acid-etched signature on the base, which would significantly enhance the value and provide a specific model number or designer code. Verification of provenance or a physical examination for subtle surface scratches would be necessary for a definitive valuation.