By Empoli
Located in Glasgow, GB
A tall and quietly commanding Empoli floor vase, handcrafted in Italy during the 1960s by Cristalleria Artistica Toscana, a glassworks known for its creative approach to mid-century glass decorative arts. This piece is formed in smoked optic glass, a distinctive medium in the Empoli tradition, accentuated by swirling white candy-stripe bands that spiral upward with subtle motion.
The shape is restrained yet architectural: a tall cylindrical form with softened curves and a smooth, level rim—classic attributes of Italian modernist glass design from this period. Measuring 49 cm in height with a 14.5 cm diameter, the vase is proportioned for use as a floor-standing decorative piece, but is equally suited to consoles, mantels, or pedestal display.
Whether used as a vessel for dramatic floral arrangements or appreciated on its own as a mid-century modern glass sculpture, this piece speaks to the Empoli region’s legacy of innovation in blown art glass during the post-war era. The smoky transparency of the glass and the hand-applied white striping evoke movement without ornamentation.
In very good vintage condition, free from chips or cracks. A strong collector’s example of vintage Italian glassware...
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases
MaterialsArt Glass, Blown Glass