Topic: Glass vase from the 1958 Brussels Expo

[brain_11]

Well, here is the story. I went to a local antiques auction and found a vase with a sticker on it. Since I had no magnifying glass with me (I left at home...) I thought it was just an ordinary sticker. The vase had low estimate (£30). I fought for it to £150 but I was the under bidder. When I got home I took a closer look at the sticker and guess what: it said Brussels 1958 Expo Grand Prix.....
So the question: was this piece at the Expo? Do you know the designer?
I feel I made a big mistake not buying it......

[Lustrousstone]

I suspect this actual piece might not have been at the Expo but this design would have been. Such labels seem to have been a common marketing ploy.

[rocco]

Ooh, lovely vase! -- A pity that you didn't win it...

The vase was designed by Ludvika Smrckova, and this model (not the actual piece I would guess) was shown at the Expo 58 in Brussels >> Link to Czech Glass Revue 1958/8

I have an >> Exbor fish carrying the same label...

Michael

[brain_11]

Thanks Michael, I found it in the Glass revue too but was unable to read the text. I am relieved though that it was not the actual prize winner piece....
Attila

[Anik R]

Thank you for posting a photo of the vase, Attila.

Isn't it interesting that the vase in the CGR is so refined and elegant, while the one found at auction looks, umm, 'different'?  The shape doesn't seem to be quite the same, and the well and swirls seem to have gone awry. 

I assume pieces which were made for the world exhibition were treated with extra care (naturally), but I find it sad that the vase above seems to have been made with no care.

Maybe I'm just being grumpy.

[bOBA]

Hi everyone,

Partly because of its rarity, I myself would overlook any issue about the ribbon being a bit assymetrical. ... I did get to see it in the auction house and thought it a nice piece. Seeing a piece in person can make a difference. This is still a nice vase. In my opinion, the price was OK too really for what it is. Not sure when I would expect to see another for sale!


Robert (bOBA)

[rocco]

Anik, you really seem a little grumpy
I would agree with Robert that even though not perfectly executed it is still a beautiful vase, and I wouldn't think twice if I had the chance to add it to my collection.

Michael

[Anik R]

Well, it seems I'm all alone on this -- no kindred spirit to share my view, or my grumpiness.

But it's a darn good thing we Skrdlovice aficionados get excited about different designs. It makes things interesting!