Contemporary Cobalt Blue Art Glass Vase with Root and Floral Inclusions Appraisal
Category: Art Glass Vase
Description
This is a contemporary art glass vase with a vibrant cobalt blue ground color. The vase is cylindrical in shape, slightly tapering towards the base, and has a finished rim. Embedded within the glass are complex, organic forms in shades of brown, black, and red, resembling tangled branches or roots, interspersed with what appear to be stylized floral or aquatic life elements. One prominent feature is a bright yellow and white oval form near the top, suggesting a flower or perhaps an abstract sun or organism. The overall design creates a sense of depth and movement. The glass appears hand-blown, indicated by potential variations in thickness and the intentional irregularity of the internal design elements. The quality of craftsmanship appears high, with clear incorporation and layering of the different glass colors and forms. There are no visible condition issues such as cracks, chips, or significant wear. The surface appears smooth and glossy. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible in the image. Based on the provided context of being from a private gallery over 20 years ago, the estimated age is late 20th to early 21st century, placing it within the contemporary art glass period. The dimensions are provided as 13.75 inches in height and 6.25 inches in diameter.
Appraisal Report
Upon examining the provided images and details, I have assessed this contemporary art glass vase. The piece is a substantial hand-blown cylindrical form, measuring 13.75 inches in height, featuring a vibrant cobalt blue ground with complex internal inclusions of roots, branches, and stylized floral elements. The craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, demonstrating sophisticated glass layering and control of color, particularly in the prominent yellow and white feature near the rim. The condition appears to be excellent, with no visible chips, cracks, or surface wear. Based on its style and the owner's information, this piece likely dates to the late 20th or early 21st century. The market for unsigned contemporary studio glass is broad. Vases of this size, complexity, and aesthetic quality by anonymous but skilled artists often sell in a consistent price range. Comparables include large, unsigned studio art glass vases from the same period, which typically trade between $400 and $800 at auction and in galleries, depending on execution and visual appeal. The primary value-limiting factor is the lack of a signature or maker's mark. If a signature were discovered upon physical inspection, or if provenance could link it to a recognized artist or studio, the value could increase significantly. Lacking this attribution, its value is based purely on its decorative and technical merit. Authentication is limited to visual analysis; a physical examination is necessary to check for a pontil mark, any hidden signatures, and to confirm the absence of damage.
Appraisal Value
$500 - $750