AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a turquoise blue glass votive candle holder from the iconic Kivi collection. The Kivi (meaning 'stone' in Finnish) was designed by Heikki Orvola in 1988 for the renowned Finnish glassware manufacturer Iittala. The piece is characterized by its thick-walled, press-molded glass construction, which creates a deep, saturated color and a heavy, high-quality feel in the hand. The exterior surface is adorned with a 'Kastehelmi' or dewdrop pattern, featuring rows of raised glass beads that appear as delicate bubbles. These beads catch and refract the light of a candle flame, enhancing the visual depth of the turquoise glass. Measuring approximately 60mm in height, the piece exhibits the clean, minimalist lines typical of Scandinavian Modern design. The condition appears to be excellent with no visible chips or cracks. The base often contains a molded 'IITTALA' mark, though the presence of the traditional red 'i' sticker would further confirm its authenticity. This specific turquoise hue is a mid-century inspired color that remains a staple of the Kivi line, prized for its clarity and jewel-like tone under warm lighting conditions.

Based on my examination of this Heikki Orvola designed Iittala Kivi candle holder, I have assessed its value within the current market for Scandinavian art glass. The piece is finished in a sought-after 'Turquoise' hue, a color traditionally more valuable than standard clears or greens but more common than 'Red' or 'Rio Brown' variants. Direct visual inspection indicates the glass is in excellent condition; there is no evidence of heat-stress fractures, common in these thick-walled press-molded pieces, nor are there any visible 'flea bites' along the rim. The presence of the Kastehelmi (Dewdrop) pattern on a Kivi shape is a specific stylistic crossover that appeals to collectors of both series. Market demand for Iittala remains consistent, particularly for mid-century modern aesthetics, though the high production volume of the 60mm Kivi line keeps prices accessible. While the item appears authentic in molding and color saturation, a definitive valuation is limited by the digital format. I cannot verify the presence of the tactile 'IITTALA' mark on the base or the specific 'i' sticker adhesive residue, which helps distinguish genuine items from modern reproductions or imitations. For full authentication, an in-person examination is required to verify the glass weight (approx. 280-300g), clarity under ultraviolet light to check for repair resins, and a tactile inspection for surface scratches. Provenance documentation or an original gift box would further solidify the upper range of this estimate.