This offering comprises a matched pair of shell-form decorative glass dishes, produced in the 1960s and executed in thick aqua-toned pressed glass.
Authenticity & Construction
Each dish is modeled with deeply radiating spiral ribs that resolve into a tight central whorl, creating pronounced optical movement and a strong sculptural presence despite the shallow profile. The forms are crisply defined and highly symmetrical, characteristics consistent with postwar molded glass production rather than free-blown studio work. Close examination reveals controlled mold flow and uniform rib definition, visible in the documented macro images, confirming pressed manufacture while retaining a refined surface finish.
The aqua coloration is cool and luminous, shifting subtly between blue and green depending on ambient light. Under ultraviolet examination, the glass emits a soft green fluorescence when exposed to 365 nm UV light, with no reaction under 395 nm. This behavior is consistent with manganese-bearing glass, historically used as a refining and decolorizing agent in mid-20th-century production. The UV response definitively excludes uranium content.
Provenance
The shell motif reflects the period’s interest in abstracted natural forms, translated here into functional sculpture. These objects read equally as decorative dishes or as stand-alone display pieces and are particularly effective when backlit or shown against dark surfaces.
Dimensions & Weight (each)
Condition
Good condition, consistent with age and use.
One dish exhibits a small, stable crack, clearly documented in the final image
No repairs observed
Light surface wear consistent with handling The crack does not compromise display integrity and has been fully disclosed.
Attribution & Period
Mid-20th century, circa 1960s. Dating is supported by manufacturing method, glass chemistry, UV response, and design language consistent with decorative pressed glass produced during this period. No maker’s mark is present; the pair is presented unattributed, in accordance with responsible cataloguing standards. Material & UV Disclosure Pressed (molded) glass with manganese content, confirmed by fluorescence under 365 nm UV light only. No uranium content indicated.
Placement
Decor / Collection Context Mid-Century Decorative Art Glass
Organic Modernism ;Sculptural Glass
STANDARD ATTRIBUTION & VALUE DISCLOSURE; This piece is described to the best of current scholarly and market knowledge. Any maker or regional attribution is based on visual analysis, materials, construction techniques, and documented stylistic comparisons. As with many vintage and antique glass objects, definitive attribution may not be possible without original labels or factory records. Pricing reflects condition, quality, decorative appeal, and current collector demand rather than a guaranteed maker identification.
This offering comprises a matched pair of shell-form decorative glass dishes, produced in the 1960s and executed in thick aqua-toned pressed glass.
Authenticity & Construction
Each dish is modeled with deeply radiating spiral ribs that resolve into a tight central whorl, creating pronounced optical movement and a strong sculptural presence despite the shallow profile. The forms are crisply defined and highly symmetrical, characteristics consistent with postwar molded glass production rather than free-blown studio work. Close examination reveals controlled mold flow and uniform rib definition, visible in the documented macro images, confirming pressed manufacture while retaining a refined surface finish.
The aqua coloration is cool and luminous, shifting subtly between blue and green depending on ambient light. Under ultraviolet examination, the glass emits a soft green fluorescence when exposed to 365 nm UV light, with no reaction under 395 nm. This behavior is consistent with manganese-bearing glass, historically used as a refining and decolorizing agent in mid-20th-century production. The UV response definitively excludes uranium content.
Provenance
The shell motif reflects the period’s interest in abstracted natural forms, translated here into functional sculpture. These objects read equally as decorative dishes or as stand-alone display pieces and are particularly effective when backlit or shown against dark surfaces.
Dimensions & Weight (each)
Condition
Good condition, consistent with age and use.
One dish exhibits a small, stable crack, clearly documented in the final image
No repairs observed
Light surface wear consistent with handling The crack does not compromise display integrity and has been fully disclosed.
Attribution & Period
Mid-20th century, circa 1960s. Dating is supported by manufacturing method, glass chemistry, UV response, and design language consistent with decorative pressed glass produced during this period. No maker’s mark is present; the pair is presented unattributed, in accordance with responsible cataloguing standards. Material & UV Disclosure Pressed (molded) glass with manganese content, confirmed by fluorescence under 365 nm UV light only. No uranium content indicated.
Placement
Decor / Collection Context Mid-Century Decorative Art Glass
Organic Modernism ;Sculptural Glass
STANDARD ATTRIBUTION & VALUE DISCLOSURE; This piece is described to the best of current scholarly and market knowledge. Any maker or regional attribution is based on visual analysis, materials, construction techniques, and documented stylistic comparisons. As with many vintage and antique glass objects, definitive attribution may not be possible without original labels or factory records. Pricing reflects condition, quality, decorative appeal, and current collector demand rather than a guaranteed maker identification.
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