Moser Harrach Amethyst Cameo Vase with Engraved Elk by Gunter

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A rare and exceptionally decorative late 19th-century moser harrach art glass vase, featuring a deeply carved and engraved cameo woodland … Read more A rare and exceptionally decorative late 19th-century moser harrach art glass vase, featuring a deeply carved and engraved cameo woodland scene depicting an elk, executed in rich amethyst glass cut through to clear. This substantial vase stands approximately 9¾ inches tall and weighs around 2 kg, giving it an impressive presence as a centrepiece or standalone objet d'art. The vase is formed from clear glass deeply cased in amethyst, with the highly skilled carving cutting through the coloured layer to reveal the clear glass beneath. The result is a remarkable contrast of purple and clear glass, particularly effective in the finely modelled elk and surrounding woodland landscape. The central cameo panel is the principal attraction. The animal is deeply engraved and sculpted with considerable detail, while the surrounding forest provides additional depth and texture. Running your fingers across the decoration reveals the substantial depth and smoothness of the carving. The vase is further enhanced by hobstar, fan and optic cutting, with deeply scalloped clear-cut rim and base edge. The underside is finished with an attractive star-cut base. Particularly noteworthy is the hand-engraved signature “gunter” within the cameo decoration. Signed examples of this type of deeply carved decorative glass are considerably less frequently encountered, adding further interest to the piece. The combination of the rich amethyst casing, elaborate cameo carving, woodland subject and geometric cutting makes this an especially striking example of late victorian central european art glass. A true statement centrepiece for collectors of moser, harrach, bohemian art glass and finely carved cameo glass. Measurements height: 9¾” (24.8 cm) rim diameter: 5” (12.7 cm) base diameter: 3” (7.6 cm) weight: approximately 2 kg condition excellent antique condition, with no significant damage noted. There is some minor shelf wear consistent with age and use. The carved decoration remains crisp and well defined. Please examine all photographs carefully. Research notes moser and harrach were two highly important bohemian glassworks with long and distinguished histories. Moser, founded by ludwig moser in karlsbad (now karlovy vary) in 1857, became internationally renowned for luxury crystal, elaborate engraving, cutting, gilding and richly coloured glass. The firm supplied prestigious clients including royalty and became particularly associated with exceptionally high-quality decorative glass. The harrach glassworks, established in bohemia in the early 18th century, was one of the region's oldest glass manufacturers. During the 19th century it became particularly celebrated for colourful art glass, engraved and enamelled decoration and innovative historicist and japonisme designs. The two names are sometimes encountered together in connection with bohemian glass production, although individual pieces require careful examination of their form, decoration, signatures and marks before a specific attribution can be established. This vase is particularly noteworthy for its deep amethyst-to-clear cameo technique and the signed “gunter” woodland composition, making it a highly decorative and unusual survivor from the great period of late 19th-century european art glass. An exceptional piece for the serious collector of bohemian cameo glass, moser/harrach glass and late victorian decorative arts. See less