1970s-1980s Pairpoint Mfa Optic Diamond Vase With Controlled-Bubble Stem, Signed

Details

Description

Striking hand-blown American art glass vase by Pairpoint, signed “MFA Pairpoint” on the underside and produced as part of Pairpoint's … Read more Striking hand-blown American art glass vase by Pairpoint, signed “MFA Pairpoint” on the underside and produced as part of Pairpoint's work commissioned for the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston during the 1970s and 1980s.

The vase features a beautifully proportioned optic-diamond bowl raised above a distinctive controlled-bubble ball connector. The repeating diamond optic pattern catches and refracts light across the clear glass, while the spherical connector contains precisely arranged controlled bubbles.

The controlled-bubble ball has deep roots in Pairpoint's historic design vocabulary. Pairpoint employed controlled-bubble decoration on vases, candlesticks and other forms during earlier periods of the company's production, and later Pairpoint glass drew upon the techniques and forms of the company's long glassmaking history.

The vase is beautifully hand-finished throughout, including a highly polished pontil on the underside. The base bears the “MFA Pairpoint” signature associated with Pairpoint's Museum of Fine Arts, Boston commissioned production.

Pairpoint's Massachusetts glassmaking tradition dates to the 19th century. Following the revival of Pairpoint glassmaking in Sagamore, Massachusetts in 1970, the company produced both contemporary designs and works based upon or inspired by historic glass forms, including pieces created for museum programs.

At approximately 10 inches tall and 6 inches in diameter, this is a substantial and elegant example combining traditional American glassmaking craftsmanship, optical patterning and the controlled-bubble technique for which Pairpoint is well known.

Further research may establish whether this particular design represents a revival or reproduction of an earlier Pairpoint form, or a later MFA-era design incorporating elements of the company's historic glassmaking vocabulary.

Maker: Pairpoint Glass Company
Commission: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Mark: Signed “MFA Pairpoint”
Date: Circa 1970s–1980s
Origin: Massachusetts, United States
Material: Hand-blown art glass
Design: Optic diamond with controlled-bubble ball connector
Dimensions: Approximately 10" H × 6" diameter
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks or repairs noted. Minor surface wear, if present, is consistent with age and careful use. Please see photographs for details. See less