Loetz-Style Amethyst Ombre with Yellow Lilly Flower Vase (1890's Bohemian)

This Loetz-Style Amethyst Ombre with Yellow Lilly Flower Vase (Bohemia, 1890's) was purchased from a Capitol Hill home in Washington, D.C. in the 1970's. We believe it is a Loetz creation, but it is unmarked. Most of the pieces of this time period were shipped and sold with labels affixed. Most of these paper labels did not withstand the rigors of time (and thorough housekeeping) when the flowers had faded.

The history of Loetz glass, and Bohemian glass in general, is a fascinating topic. In spite of wars and shifting borders and cultures, the Bohemian (now Czech) craftsmen who preserved glassmaking traditions dating back to the Middle Ages still remain. And Loetz and Moser creations from the late Hapsburg Empire are the peacocks of the bunch.

It has a beautiful amethyst color that fades from dark to lighter colors. The Yellow and orange Lillies are annealed onto the glass. The lip of the vase is crenelated and wavy. We estimate it weighs about 2 lbs. or less and, while delicate in appearance, it has withstood the sands of time to get from Bohemia to RSB Home. With good packing and insurance, it may get to yours as well.

This would make a perfect gift for a special someone, or add some whimsical color and a practical vase to an art glass collector's inventory.