Mid-Century Crystal Centerpiece attributed to Nachtmann, 1960s, Set of 4

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Description

This very nice item is a vintage modular serving dish made from fine Echt Bleikristall (lead crystal with a lead … Read more This very nice item is a vintage modular serving dish made from fine Echt Bleikristall (lead crystal with a lead content of over 24%), typical of German or Central European production from the second half of the 20th century and attributed to the Nachtmann factory.

The original golden label visible in the image, ‘Echt Bleikristall’, certifies the use of genuine lead crystal, characterised by a high refractive index which gives the piece superior lustre and transparency compared to ordinary glass, as well as its characteristic metallic sound when tapped.
The set comprises two mirror-image semi-circular elements which, when placed together, form a perfect circle.
Each module is divided internally into three compartments, designed to serve various types of appetisers or canapés with order and elegance.
This artwork, never before on the market, comes from an important Italian private collection
The outer surface features intricate engraving (polishing) with vertical and grid-like geometric patterns.
These facets are designed to ‘capture’ and refract light, creating a play of brilliance that emphasises the quality of the crystal; a characteristic that gives the glass greater brilliance, weight and the classic crystalline sound when touched.
It fits into the Mid-Century Modern style or the Retro Design of the 1960s.
Its modularity makes it a versatile piece: the four pieces can be used together as a circular centrepiece or separately to balance the table setting.
The visible geometric pattern indicates that the piece is made of cut crystal (often hand-finished, as indicated by the term ‘Handgeschliffen’).
This type of glassware was very popular due to its combination of practicality for domestic use and aesthetic appeal, and was often used as a centrepiece for cocktail parties or formal occasions. See less