Monumental Bohemian Ruby Cut to Clear Crystal Flower Form Vase, Circa 1880

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Monumental Bohemian Ruby Cut-to-Clear Crystal Flower-Form Vase, Circa 1880

A monumental and brilliantly executed Bohemian ruby cut-to-clear crystal vase, circa … Read more Monumental Bohemian Ruby Cut-to-Clear Crystal Flower-Form Vase, Circa 1880

A monumental and brilliantly executed Bohemian ruby cut-to-clear crystal vase, circa 1880, of exceptional scale and sculptural presence. Crafted in two parts, this dramatic centerpiece is formed as a deeply faceted pedestal base supporting a removable trumpet-form upper vase, its exuberant scalloped rim cut as stylized petals in full bloom. The overall silhouette evokes an opening chrysanthemum or lotus, giving the piece a distinctly theatrical and architectural presence.

Executed in richly saturated ruby overlay on clear crystal, the vase was created using the demanding cut-to-clear technique for which the great glasshouses of northern Bohemia became renowned in the late 19th century. A layer of ruby glass was flashed over clear crystal, then meticulously wheel-cut by hand to reveal the brilliant clear ground beneath. The result is a striking interplay of deep cranberry red and sharply cut crystal, with elongated petal panels, radiating facets, and a star-cut base that animate the surface with light and depth.

The unusual two-part construction is particularly compelling, allowing the upper bowl to lift from the pedestal base and suggesting its original use as an elaborate floral centerpiece or grand garniture vase. At over 22 inches high and more than 12 inches wide, this is an unusually ambitious scale for Bohemian overlay crystal, far exceeding the more commonly encountered cabinet examples of the period.

A superb example of late 19th-century Bohemian decorative glass—bold, luminous, and unmistakably grand.

Dimensions
Overall: 22.5 in. H x 12.5 in. Diameter
Base: 13 in. H x 9 in. Diameter
Top: 12 in. H x 12.5 in. Diameter
Interior: 11 in. H x 7 in. Diameter See less