The Piece
A beautifully preserved mid-century pressed glass vase, produced circa 1950–1965, this emerald green piece captures the refined utility and sculptural elegance characteristic of the postwar design era. With its elongated hourglass profile and swirling optic pattern, it balances functional craftsmanship with visual rhythm—a hallmark of mid-century glass design intended for both tableware and decorative display.
The vase’s vivid green hue and spiraled lattice surface lend it an organic fluidity, allowing light to refract dynamically across the form. Designed to hold long-stemmed florals or to stand alone as a sculptural accent, it reflects the modernist fascination with texture, geometry, and light play.
Design & Construction
→ Form & Style:
A tall, cylindrical vase with a subtly flared lip and a gentle inward curve at the waist. The exterior features a diagonal ribbed or swirl optic pattern, pressed into the glass in a continuous helix—a design motif seen in both Empoli (Italy) production and American glassworks such as Anchor Hocking and Colony Glass during the 1950s. The pattern enhances visual motion and depth, making it as striking empty as when filled.
→ Material:
Crafted from soda-lime glass with a rich green tint achieved through iron oxide coloring. The glass is moderately thick with a polished rim and weighted base, ensuring stability while maintaining translucence. The molded surface creates a tactile grip and a jewel-like shimmer under changing light.
→ Finish & Patina:
The glass retains a soft sheen with minor age wear typical of authentic mid-century pressed pieces—subtle surface rippling and light tooling marks beneath the base, consistent with hand-finished molds of the era.
Dimensions
Height: 9"
Diameter (at mouth): 4.5"
Diameter (at base): 3.75"
(Measurements within ¼ inch)
History & Provenance
This design emerged during the height of mid-century glass innovation (1948–1965), when producers in Italy’s Empoli region and American factories in Ohio and Pennsylvania began experimenting with machine-assisted molding and bold color palettes. The spiral optic design—sometimes called “twist diamond” or “spiral ribbed”—became a signature motif of modernist glassmaking, uniting geometric repetition with fluid transparency.
Emerald and olive green tones were particularly fashionable in the 1950s, symbolizing renewal and optimism while complementing the era’s natural wood interiors and brass-accented décor. Pieces like this were sold through department stores and boutique giftware lines, bridging accessible luxury and everyday art.
Condition
In excellent vintage condition, with clear, bright coloration and no cracks or chips. The base shows minimal shelf wear, indicating careful preservation. The glass remains luminous with intact pattern definition—ideal for collectors or interior decorators seeking authentic mid-century accents.
Product Details
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Maker | Attributed to Empoli Glassworks or American pressed glass manufacturer |
| Origin | Italy or United States |
| Year | Circa 1950–1965 |
| Style | Mid-Century Modern / Art Glass |
| Material | Pressed soda-lime glass |
| Color | Emerald green |
| Condition | Excellent vintage, light surface wear at base |
| Dimensions | 9” H × 4.5” W |
Why It’s Special
This vase encapsulates the essence of mid-century modern glass design—simple, sculptural, and functional. Its spiraled texture and jewel-toned green hue make it a natural centerpiece for both vintage and contemporary interiors. Whether displayed on a dining table, console, or shelf, it embodies the optimism and craftsmanship of the 1950s design era—a timeless piece of art glass that bridges history and modern living.