This pair of sculptural cobalt glass plates is a definitive expression of the late Art Deco and Streamline Moderne aesthetic, where decorative ornament was replaced by fluid geometry and the suggestion of motion. The design features a dramatic sweeping swirl relief that radiates from a finely textured central well, creating a powerful interplay between polished and satin-sanded surfaces. Executed in a deeply saturated cobalt glass, these plates possess an architectural mass that produces exceptional light transmission and a vivid, jewel-toned glow when illuminated.
Attribution & Research
Originating from Brazilian art glass production between 1940 and 1960, these plates are part of a high-durability line produced for the burgeoning South American modernist market. The markings "N° BRASIL" and "RESISTENTE" to the underside identify them as export-quality tableware designed to withstand both thermal stress and frequent handling without sacrificing refined aesthetics. During this mid-century period, Brazilian glassmakers adapted European avant-garde influences—specifically the "Streamline" movement—into robust, functional art glass, making this radial swirl motif a classic trope designed to emphasize the inherent refractive qualities of the pressed glass medium.
Dimensions & Weight
Diameter: 9 inches (22.9 cm) each
Combined Weight: 1.762 lbs (0.8 kg)
Presence: Substantial and balanced, possessing the visual weight of decorative sculptural objects.
Condition
Presented in excellent vintage condition, these plates retain their original surface brilliance and deep color saturation. The edges remain clean and well-preserved, exhibiting only minor utensil marks consistent with light, careful table use over several decades, with no chips, cracks, or structural damage observed.
Authenticity & Construction
Constructed from high-density pressed cobalt glass, these plates utilize a complex mold to achieve alternating polished and matte textures across the sculpted swirl relief. The "Resistente" branding was an early industry standard for tempered or thickened glass, ensuring the design remained durable while maintaining the saturated color depth prized by collectors of period glassware.
Placement
Ideally suited for Modernist architectural spaces or Art Deco interiors, these plates function equally well as sophisticated dinnerware or as wall-mounted sculptural installations. When positioned in natural window light or under gallery spotlights, the sweeping relief creates a dramatic prismatic effect, making them a striking choice for layered tabletop compositions, minimalist shelving, or glass display cabinets.
Provenance
Private decorative arts collection.
This pair of sculptural cobalt glass plates is a definitive expression of the late Art Deco and Streamline Moderne aesthetic, where decorative ornament was replaced by fluid geometry and the suggestion of motion. The design features a dramatic sweeping swirl relief that radiates from a finely textured central well, creating a powerful interplay between polished and satin-sanded surfaces. Executed in a deeply saturated cobalt glass, these plates possess an architectural mass that produces exceptional light transmission and a vivid, jewel-toned glow when illuminated.
Attribution & Research
Originating from Brazilian art glass production between 1940 and 1960, these plates are part of a high-durability line produced for the burgeoning South American modernist market. The markings "N° BRASIL" and "RESISTENTE" to the underside identify them as export-quality tableware designed to withstand both thermal stress and frequent handling without sacrificing refined aesthetics. During this mid-century period, Brazilian glassmakers adapted European avant-garde influences—specifically the "Streamline" movement—into robust, functional art glass, making this radial swirl motif a classic trope designed to emphasize the inherent refractive qualities of the pressed glass medium.
Dimensions & Weight
Diameter: 9 inches (22.9 cm) each
Combined Weight: 1.762 lbs (0.8 kg)
Presence: Substantial and balanced, possessing the visual weight of decorative sculptural objects.
Condition
Presented in excellent vintage condition, these plates retain their original surface brilliance and deep color saturation. The edges remain clean and well-preserved, exhibiting only minor utensil marks consistent with light, careful table use over several decades, with no chips, cracks, or structural damage observed.
Authenticity & Construction
Constructed from high-density pressed cobalt glass, these plates utilize a complex mold to achieve alternating polished and matte textures across the sculpted swirl relief. The "Resistente" branding was an early industry standard for tempered or thickened glass, ensuring the design remained durable while maintaining the saturated color depth prized by collectors of period glassware.
Placement
Ideally suited for Modernist architectural spaces or Art Deco interiors, these plates function equally well as sophisticated dinnerware or as wall-mounted sculptural installations. When positioned in natural window light or under gallery spotlights, the sweeping relief creates a dramatic prismatic effect, making them a striking choice for layered tabletop compositions, minimalist shelving, or glass display cabinets.
Provenance
Private decorative arts collection.
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