Kosta Boda 'Snowball' Glass Votive Candle Holder

This is a quintessential example of Scandinavian glass design, the 'Snowball' votive candle holder produced by Kosta Boda of Sweden. Designed by Ann Wolff (formerly Wärff) in 1973, this piece is crafted from heavy, high-quality lead crystal. Physically, the item features a rugged, irregular spherical form intended to mimic the appearance and texture of a handmade snowball. The exterior is characterized by a deeply textured, 'craggy' surface that diffuses light brilliantly, while the interior is a smooth, cylindrical cavity designed to hold a standard tea light or votive candle. Its transparent, colorless glass emphasizes the purity and clarity of the material. In terms of condition, the piece appears to be in excellent vintage state with no visible chips, cracks, or clouding. The thick walls and substantial weight are hallmarks of the artisanal centrifuge or hand-molding techniques used in the Kosta Boda factory. This style period reflects the organic, nature-inspired minimalism of the 1970s Swedish crystal movement. There are no maker's marks visible in the photograph, though these typically carried an adhesive transparency label or a faint acid-etched signature on the base. The craftsmanship is evident in the play of light created by the undulating refractive surfaces, which provide a warm, flickering glow when illuminated.