1930s Art Deco Amber Glass and Brass-Mounted Swan Decanter

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An elegant figural decanter or claret jug in the form of a stylized swan, characteristic of the the 1930s-1940s Art … Read more An elegant figural decanter or claret jug in the form of a stylized swan, characteristic of the the 1930s-1940s Art Deco period. The streamlined zoomorphic form, combination of amber glass with metal mounts, and functional design are all hallmarks of the era. The body is crafted from hand-blown amber glass, with a gracefully curved neck. A handle, formed from applied clear glass rods, suggests the bird's wings and tail. The head, which serves as a hinged stopper and pourer, is cast in brass and exhibits a heavy, age-appropriate patina. The interior of the hinge mechanism is clearly stamped 'AUSTRIA'.

The specific design is frequently attributed to the prominent Czechoslovakian Art Deco glass manufacturer Karl Palda. However, it is likely that this is an anonymous Austrian trade piece, created in a popular style also produced by Palda. Under import laws of the period, the 'AUSTRIA' mark would typically identify the country of origin for the entire assembled object, not just a single component. See less