Sculptural Ruby Red Glass Calabasse Vases by Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg for Hirschberg, 1950s, Set of 2

Details

Description

Hirschberg "Kalabasse" Vase Duo by Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg, Germany, pre-1958

A matched pair of ruby red glass vases from the celebrated … Read more Hirschberg "Kalabasse" Vase Duo by Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg, Germany, pre-1958

A matched pair of ruby red glass vases from the celebrated Kalabasse series, designed by Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg for Kristallglaswerke Hirschberg before 1958. Combining bold colour with an elegantly balanced organic silhouette, the design is a refined example of post-war German modernism, where sculptural simplicity and technical precision come together in equal measure.

Designer: Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg

Manufacturer: Kristallglaswerke Hirschberg

Model: Kalabasse 862600/31

Country of Manufacture: Germany

Period: Designed before 1958

Material: Glass

Colour: Ruby red

Finish: Glossy

Dimensions (each)

Height: 31 cm

Diameter: 18 cm

Neck opening: 4.5 cm

Condition

Very good vintage condition. Both vases are free from chips, cracks, and restorations, showing only minor wear consistent with age and careful use.

About the Designer

Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg (1908–1998) was one of Germany's leading industrial designers of the post-war period. Active across graphic, product, and exhibition design, he was a strong advocate of functional modernism, creating objects distinguished by clarity, proportion, and restrained elegance. His collaboration with Kristallglaswerke Hirschberg produced some of the factory's most enduring glass designs.

About the Manufacturer

Kristallglaswerke Hirschberg was among Germany's most respected producers of decorative glass during the mid-twentieth century. Working with prominent designers, the factory became known for combining high-quality craftsmanship with the clear formal language of modern industrial design.

Design

Named Kalabasse after the rounded form of the bottle gourd, the vase is defined by a generous bulbous body that rises into a slender cylindrical neck. The contrast between the expansive lower volume and the restrained neck creates a harmonious silhouette that feels both organic and architectural. Executed in richly coloured ruby glass, the form comes alive as light passes through the translucent body, producing remarkable depth and a warm internal glow.

Displayed as a pair, the vases create a balanced architectural composition in which repetition reinforces the purity of Braun-Feldweg's design while intensifying the visual impact of the saturated colour.

Style: Mid-Century Modern

Materials: Glass

Place of Origin: Germany

Condition: Very good

Whether placed on a sideboard, console, or dining table, the pair makes a striking sculptural statement with or without flowers. Their refined proportions and vibrant ruby colour complement both classic mid-century interiors and contemporary spaces, pairing particularly well with walnut, rosewood, travertine, and polished metals. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
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