Bohemian Gilded Cobalt Blue Glass Vase with Enamelled Florals

Details

Description

Thick parcel-gilt panels and delicate raised enamel florals define this striking Bohemian vase. Blown in deep cobalt blue glass, the … Read more Thick parcel-gilt panels and delicate raised enamel florals define this striking Bohemian vase. Blown in deep cobalt blue glass, the piece is formed with an elongated baluster body tapering down to a gilded knop and a spreading circular pedestal foot. The mouth features an everted rim that reveals the rich, translucent blue tone of the underlying glass interior when viewed from above. The upper section is wrapped in a heavy matte and burnished gold ground, decorated with trailing hand-painted floral sprays. These blossoms are rendered in soft white, blush pink and pale blue enamels, accented by fine green leaves and raised beadwork. Classical scrolling cartouches and stylised palmette motifs frame the edges of the gilded sections, terminating in elegant scalloped borders that expose the intense sapphire-blue glass below. Hand-applied gilt flourishes continue around the waist and onto the flared foot, which is finished with a gilded border. Characteristic of twentieth-century Czech glassmaking traditions from Bohemia, this style of overlay and enamel ornamentation combines classical forms with ornate decorative techniques. The piece is unmarked on its smoothly finished base. Measuring approximately 28 cm high by 11 cm in diameter, this substantial vase functions well as a decorative table centrepiece or mantel ornament. Minor surface rubbing and softening to the gilding are present along the upper rim and foot, consistent with gentle handling over time See less