Mid-Century Modern Amber Art Glass Ashtray or Trinket Dish
Vintage Art Glass / Decorative Arts

Mid-Century Modern Amber Art Glass Ashtray or Trinket Dish

This is a vintage Mid-Century Modern hand-blown art glass piece, functioning as either a deep-welled ashtray or a decorative trinket dish. The item features a striking biomorphic, asymmetrical organic shape, often referred to as a 'swoop' or 'freeform' design, which was highly popular during the 1950s and 1960s. It is crafted from heavy, thick-walled glass in a rich, transparent amber or smoky topaz hue. The color depth varies across the piece due to the varying thickness of the glass, creating a beautiful play of light and shadow. The rim is smooth and fire-polished, curving upward significantly on one side to create a wave-like profile. The interior well is smooth and reflective. While no specific maker's mark is visible in the image, the style and craftsmanship are consistent with prominent glasshouses of the era such as Viking Glass, Blenko, or Murano. The condition appears excellent with a high surface gloss; there are no visible chips, cracks, or heavy scratching on the interior. The base likely features a ground and polished pontil mark or a smooth base consistent with high-quality hand-worked production. This piece exhibits characteristic quality indicators of vintage art glass, including weightiness and fluid lines.

Estimated Value

$45-85

Basic Information

Category

Vintage Art Glass / Decorative Arts

Appraised On

January 19, 2026

Estimated Value

$45-85

Item Description

This is a vintage Mid-Century Modern hand-blown art glass piece, functioning as either a deep-welled ashtray or a decorative trinket dish. The item features a striking biomorphic, asymmetrical organic shape, often referred to as a 'swoop' or 'freeform' design, which was highly popular during the 1950s and 1960s. It is crafted from heavy, thick-walled glass in a rich, transparent amber or smoky topaz hue. The color depth varies across the piece due to the varying thickness of the glass, creating a beautiful play of light and shadow. The rim is smooth and fire-polished, curving upward significantly on one side to create a wave-like profile. The interior well is smooth and reflective. While no specific maker's mark is visible in the image, the style and craftsmanship are consistent with prominent glasshouses of the era such as Viking Glass, Blenko, or Murano. The condition appears excellent with a high surface gloss; there are no visible chips, cracks, or heavy scratching on the interior. The base likely features a ground and polished pontil mark or a smooth base consistent with high-quality hand-worked production. This piece exhibits characteristic quality indicators of vintage art glass, including weightiness and fluid lines.

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