Mid-Century Modern Cobalt Blue Glass Bud Vase

This item is a slender, cylindrical bud vase crafted from transparent glass, featuring a striking transition in color. The upper portion of the vase is a light, ethereal sky blue, which gradually deepens into a rich, saturated cobalt blue at the thick, weighted base. The construction is characteristic of Mid-Century Modern glassware, likely produced in the mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1960s-1970s). The vase stands approximately 8 to 10 inches tall with a narrow diameter, designed to hold a single floral stem. A notable feature is the 'controlled bubble' or 'bullicante' effect occasionally seen in the base of such pieces, though here the base appears solid and heavy to provide stability. The glass shows excellent clarity with a smooth, fire-polished rim. Regarding condition, there are no visible chips, cracks, or significant surface scratches, though light shelf wear on the bottom surface is expected for its age. While no maker's mark is immediately visible in the image, the style is reminiscent of Scandinavian (such as Holmegaard or Aseda) or American (such as Blenko or West Virginia Glass) art glass. The quality is indicated by the uniform wall thickness and the absence of mold lines, suggesting it was hand-blown or high-quality machine-finished.

I have conducted a visual examination of this Mid-Century Modern cobalt blue ombré bud vase. The item demonstrates high-quality glasswork consistent with the 1960s-1970s era, specifically noted in the smooth transition from sky blue to saturated cobalt. The lack of visible mold seams and the presence of a fire-polished rim suggest a hand-blown or high-end finished production. The condition appears to be 'Excellent' with no apparent chips or internal clouding, which is critical for value in art glass. In the current secondary market, similar unsigned Scandinavian and American (Blenko-style) vases remain popular for interior design, though they are relatively common. Prices vary based on the intensity of the color gradient and provenance. Factors limiting a higher valuation include the lack of a definitive maker's mark (acid etch or paper label) and the generic nature of the form. Limitations: This appraisal is based strictly on photographic evidence. A physical inspection is required to confirm the presence of a pontil mark, evaluate the specific weight of the glass, and check for minute 'flea bites' that may not be visible in images. To elevate this piece to a higher tier of authentication (e.g., attributing it specifically to Per Lütken for Holmegaard), I would require original sales records or a matched signature on the base. Proper identification of the glass house would likely increase the value by 20-30%.