Art Deco Heinrich Hoffmann Bohemian Crystal Box/Ashtray - Faun & Dancing Nymphs

Details

Description

Art Deco Heinrich Hoffmann Bohemian Crystal Box/Ashtray - Faun & Dancing Nymphs - Ingrid Collection c.1927-1930s

Designer: Adolf Beckert for … Read more Art Deco Heinrich Hoffmann Bohemian Crystal Box/Ashtray - Faun & Dancing Nymphs - Ingrid Collection c.1927-1930s

Designer: Adolf Beckert for Heinrich Hoffmann Manufacturer: Curt Schlevogt Glassworks, Jablonec (Gablonz), Bohemia (Czechoslovakia) Collection: Ingrid Collection Design Date: 1927 Production Era: 1930s Origin: Made in Bohemia for the French market

Measurements:

Length: 6.3 inches (16 cm)
Width: 3.1 inches (7.9 cm)
Height: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Description:

This exquisite Art Deco pressed crystal box (or ashtray) features a stunning relief-molded design depicting a classical scene of a naked faun playing the flute for three semi-dressed dancing nymphs. The piece showcases the beautiful satin finish achieved through acid-etching, creating a lustrous, frosted effect that highlights the sculptural details of the figural scene.

Design & Artistic Significance:

This rectangular crystal piece represents Heinrich Hoffmann's successful venture into decorative pressed glass, inspired by the artistic achievements of René Lalique. The romantic mythological scene - with its graceful nymphs and musical faun - embodies the elegance and sensuality characteristic of Art Deco design from the late 1920s and 1930s.

Historical Provenance:

Heinrich Hoffmann (1875-1939): Prominent French glass retailer who opened his shop in Paris at the turn of the 20th century, initially selling glass jewelry before expanding into decorative pressed molded articles
Adolf Beckert: Renowned Bohemian glass designer who created the Ingrid Collection for Hoffmann
Curt Schlevogt Glassworks: Premier Bohemian manufacturer in Jablonec (Gablonz), North Bohemia; Henry Schlevogt (1904-1984) was related to Heinrich Hoffmann by marriage
This design dates to 1927 and was part of Hoffmann's strategy to capitalize on the success of Lalique's acid-etched relief molded designs

Condition: Very good

Authentication Note:

This piece is unmarked, which is typical and correct for Heinrich Hoffmann pieces from this era. Many Hoffmann pieces produced by Schlevogt were not marked, as they were identified through Hoffmann's retail channels and catalog documentation. Authentication is based on the documented design (dating to 1927), the characteristic satin acid-etched finish, the Ingrid Collection provenance, and the quality of Bohemian pressed crystal work. The specific figural scene of the faun and three nymphs is a documented Hoffmann/Beckert design.


Rarity & Collectibility:

This is a rare and highly collectible piece from the prestigious Ingrid Collection. Heinrich Hoffmann pieces are sought after by Art Deco glass collectors, particularly those with documented provenance to specific collections and designers like Adolf Beckert. The combination of Hoffmann's French market appeal and Bohemian craftsmanship makes this a significant example of 1920s-30s decorative arts.

Perfect for:

Art Deco glass collectors
Hoffmann/Schlevogt enthusiasts
French decorative arts collectors
Bohemian crystal specialists
Lalique-style pressed glass collectors See less