Shura 1983 Etched Cased Glass Vase

This is a sophisticated studio glass vase dated to 1983 and attributed to the artist Shura. The vessel features a classic high-shouldered baluster form with a slightly tapered base and a polished rim. It is constructed using a cased glass technique, consisting of an interior layer of vibrant amethyst or translucent purple glass encased in an outer layer of deep charcoal or matte black frosted glass. The exterior surface is meticulously decorated with an etched or sandblasted botanical motif, depicting slender, vertical marsh grasses and blooming flowers that appear to be lilies or stylized narcissus. This subtractive process reveals the lighter, satin-finished layer beneath, creating a high-contrast monochromatic effect. The craftsmanship is evident in the precision of the fine lines used for the grass blades and the delicate shading on the flower petals. The vase appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible cracks, chips, or significant fleabites. The surface exhibits a consistent matte patina, and the interior demonstrates a rich color saturation typical of high-quality late-20th-century decorative glass art.

I have performed a visual examination of the Shura 1983 etched cased glass vase. The piece exhibits high-level technical proficiency in its subtractive sandblasting, revealing a luminous amethyst interior through a matte charcoal casing. The botanical motif is executed with a precision characteristic of the American Studio Glass movement of the early 1980s. Physically, the vase appears to be in excellent condition; there are no discernible chips, 'flea bites,' or surface scratches that would detract from its value. The polished rim and base suggest professional finishing. The market for late-20th-century studio glass remains steady for pieces with strong monochromatic contrast and naturalist themes. Comparable works by contemporary glass artists of that era typically hammer between $300 and $600 at specialized decorative arts auctions. The specific attribution to 'Shura' adds individual artist value, though Shura's output is rarer than larger studios like Seapoint or Lundberg, which can limit direct price comparisons but increases appeal for niche collectors of 80s glass. While the visual details—specifically the depth of the etching and the saturation of the cased color—strongly support its authenticity as a 1983 original, this appraisal is based on photographic evidence alone. Full authentication would require a tactile inspection to verify the signature's engraving technique, an examination of the pontil mark or base wear to confirm age, and ideally, provenance documentation linking the piece to a specific gallery or collection from the period. Without a physical signature check or UV light analysis to verify the glass composition, this valuation serves as a fair market estimate for insurance or resale purposes.