Signed Stephen Rich Nelson Studio Art Glass Sculpture 1990 Turquoise Ribbon Aventurine Bubble Glass Paperweight 10.5”

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Description

Signed Stephen Rich Nelson Studio Art Glass Sculpture 1990 Turquoise Ribbon Aventurine Bubble Glass Paperweight 10.5”

This signed studio art … Read more Signed Stephen Rich Nelson Studio Art Glass Sculpture 1990 Turquoise Ribbon Aventurine Bubble Glass Paperweight 10.5”

This signed studio art glass sculpture by American artist Stephen Rich Nelson is a striking example of late 20th-century studio glass artistry.

Hand-blown in 1990 and signed on the polished pontil base, the piece features flowing turquoise ribbon trails wrapping around a clear optical glass body filled with suspended air bubbles and shimmering gold aventurine inclusions. The organic sculptural form creates a sense of movement as the ribbon glass spirals around the interior core, catching light from every angle.

The interior bubbles and metallic aventurine produce a sparkling visual effect, while the substantial weight and polished base give the sculpture a strong presence. At over ten inches tall and weighing approximately eight pounds, the piece functions equally well as a sculptural centerpiece, modern decorative object, or collector’s studio glass artwork.

Signed “Nelson” with number 90427 etched on the base.

This piece embodies the expressive techniques of the American studio glass movement, where artists explored sculptural forms, layered color, and optical clarity in hand-blown glass.


ERA
1990

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COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
United States

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MATERIALS
Hand-blown glass
Clear optical glass
Gold aventurine inclusions
Applied turquoise ribbon glass
Controlled air bubbles

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COLOR

Primary
Turquoise
Aqua
Clear

Secondary
Gold
Sea green

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STYLE

Studio Glass
Modern
Abstract
Contemporary
Organic Modern
Postmodern
Sculptural Glass

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DIMENSIONS

Height
10.5 inches

Width
6.75 inches

Weight
Approximately 8 pounds

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CONDITION

Excellent vintage condition. Signed and numbered on the polished pontil base.


Stephen Rich Nelson is an American studio glass artist associated with the late 20th-century American Studio Glass movement. Emerging during the expansion of studio glass in the 1980s and 1990s, Nelson produced hand-blown sculptural works characterized by fluid ribbon forms, suspended bubbles, and clear optical glass bodies accented with color trails and metallic aventurine inclusions.

His work reflects the influence of the American studio glass tradition that developed after Harvey Littleton’s pioneering work in the 1960s. Artists of this movement focused on individual craftsmanship and sculptural expression rather than factory production. Nelson’s pieces are typically signed and often include production numbers or dates etched into the polished pontil base.

Collectors appreciate Nelson’s work for its dynamic internal movement, controlled bubble techniques, and luminous clarity. His sculptures and paperweights are held in private collections and appear regularly in the secondary art glass market.

Please note that we sell previously owned and vintage items. While the items we offer are in great condition oftentimes they do bear traces of their previous life and some signs of use should be expected. See less